Allegations of rape, beatings and collusion by EU-funded security forces prompt shift in migration arrangements

Summary

The European Commission is revamping its funding approach to Tunisia after a Guardian investigation revealed abuses by EU-funded Tunisian security forces, including rape and violence against migrants.

Future payments, worth tens of millions of pounds, will now require concrete human rights safeguards.

This shift follows criticism of a 2023 EU-Tunisia migration deal that prioritized border control over rights.

New oversight subcommittees will monitor compliance until 2027. Concerns about rights violations also extend to other EU migration deals with Egypt, Mauritania, and Morocco.