In addition to the elements already provided in the reply to the Honourable Member’s question on the same matter ( E-001073/2025), please kindly find below complementary information with reference to the subject matter.

While respecting the independence of the Tunisian judicial system, the EU noted with concern the heavy verdicts pronounced by the Tunisian court on 19 April 2025, which also involved EU citizens. The EU has also shared those concerns directly with Tunisian authorities through bilateral engagements.

Respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms constitutes a key element of EU-Tunisia relations, as enshrined in the Association Agreement[1] and it is raised as part of the regular dialogues with the Tunisian authorities.

On 16 April 2025, the Commission adopted a proposal for a targeted amendment to the Asylum Procedure Regulation establishing an EU list of safe countries of origin[2].

Tunisia is indeed one of the countries proposed for designation. The proposal, subject to the ordinary legislative procedure, is under the Council and the European Parliament’s scrutiny. The designation of a third country as safe country of origin does not establish a guarantee of safety for all nationals of that country.

Once the targeted amendment is adopted, Member States will still have to carry out an individual assessment of each asylum application from individuals coming from the countries designated as safe countries of origin at EU level, with all procedural safeguards intact (including legal remedies).

Last updated: 20 June 2025