Statement of LI President Van Baalen on the unrest in Tunesia - Main contents

“Dialogue, unity and stability - the only way forward for Tunisia”

I have been following the news from Tunisia in the past weeks and days with great concern. The news of intimidation, violence and human casualties following the days of protests are highly disturbing.

In particular, we are worried about the information of threats and intimidation towards the political leadership of our fellow members from Parti Social Libéral (PSL). On behalf of Liberal International I strongly condemn the use of violence as manner to gain or to maintain political power. Such attitude cannot be accepted and all actors involved in violent activities must be brought to justice. The claims of the protesters must be addressed in a democratic and transparent political process. The statements of the President Ben Ali that would not seek a new term in the office and his dismissal of the government are steps in a positive direction. However, they alone are not a solution.

What Tunisian citizens need and deserve is to hear a coherent message from all political forces that would come out of a political Convention involving all parties concerned. Such Convention should take place at a secure location, and should be assisted by the international community, including the EU, the Arab League and the United States. Liberal International is prepared to play its role in such a process. Only an all inclusive dialogue of all political parties and all the civil actors concerned can produce an outcome of the ongoing crisis that would benefit the citizens of Tunisia.

Dialogue, unity and stability are the only way forward for Tunisia. Our friends from Parti Social Libéral (PSL) in Tunisia is ready to be involved in such a dialogue, and Liberal International is willing to offer its full support in what ever format it would be needed.