The Outbreak of Women Killing and Violence Against Them by Their Spouses in Tunisia

The Tunisian Ministry of Family and Women revealed, according to a study conducted from 2018 until June 2023, that the phenomenon of violence against women has worsened, indicating that 69 murder cases occurred during this period. Minister of Family, Women, Childhood, and Seniors, Amal Belhaj Moussa, stated that "the phenomenon of violence against women by their spouses has intensified, with most cases resulting from domestic violence, exceeding 60%, according to the study conducted by the ministry from 2018 until June 2023." She added that "69 murder cases have been recorded throughout the study period," clarifying that Tunisian legislation is very clear regarding murder crimes. Regarding Law No. 58 concerning the elimination of violence against women, the minister considered that Tunisia has made significant progress in its implementation. The minister announced that "the number of shelters for women victims of violence and their children is expected to increase from 13 to 24, with one center in every state, before the end of 2024." The minister also reviewed "the achievements made to ensure the enforcement of Law 58, including that a woman who is a victim of violence can obtain a preliminary medical certificate within 48 hours for free, regardless of the perpetrator's identity, after it was previously provided weeks later for a fee, requiring that the perpetrator is the husband."