Tunisia's Ministry of Women, Family, and Seniors announced on June 15, 2026, the development of a national protocol to standardize medical, psychological, and legal care for victims of sexual violence. The initiative aims to improve coordination between health services, police, and civil society organizations.
The protocol, still in draft form, is expected to be finalized by September 2026. It includes guidelines for forensic examinations, trauma-informed counseling, and legal assistance. The move follows a 2025 report by the Tunisian Association of Democratic Women that documented over 1,200 cases of sexual violence in the country last year.
Minister Amel Belhaj Moussa stated that the protocol will ensure victims receive consistent support regardless of region. Training for healthcare workers and law enforcement is planned for late 2026. The initiative has been praised by human rights groups, though some call for stronger implementation mechanisms.
