In a historic step, the bill was passed unanimously by the Tunisian Parliament on Wednesday July 26, 2017. Tunisia thus becomes the first Arab state to adopt a comprehensive law on eliminating violence against women, including any physical, moral, sexual, political or economic aggression. The new law, in line with international standards, recognises and tackles both violence in the public sphere and the family sphere, marking a further step against eradicating domestic violence and discriminatory mind-sets.
FIDH, with the Civil Society Coalition for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls, has worked tirelessly to ensure nothing slipped through the net, drafting and presenting amendments to problematic articles prior to the final push before the vote. This has been a lengthy, tenacious and fulfilling battle ending in a sweeping victory not only for women, but for Tunisia. FIDH will remain fully engaged and committed to the implementation of the law and the allocation by the State of the budget necessary for the prevention, protection, care of victims and fight against impunity.