We are in
Djerba at the moment, an island of Tunisia. I have to say that I have learned
several things here.
To start,
Djerba, so as Tunisia, has experienced political and social change since the
events of the “Jasmine Revolution” in January 2011.
The first
democratic elections were held in 2011, on 23 October to be more specific. A
new coalition government was sworn in on 24 December, but on 19 February 2012
the Prime Minister announced his resignation from the Government.
On 6
February the assassination of an opposition politician caused widespread unrest
across Tunisia. This called for the coalition government to step down.
Nowadays
protests remain common in the south west of Tunisia and around large industrial
sites. Demonstrations caused by religious tensions can happen at any time and
in any location across Tunisia.
This was in
short about the tensions in Tunisia, I have to say I am relieved that we have
not experienced anything like this during our stay here.
We visited
Djerba with a guide and he told us it is very important to respect local
traditions, religions, customs,… at all times. This to ensure that we did not
offend other cultures or religious beliefs. He also told us that tourists need
to pay extra attention to that during the holy month of Ramadan and if you
intend to visit religious areas, such as mosques. The local laws really showed
us that Djerba is an Islamic country.
He also
asked us to avoid taking photographs, especially near sensitive political or
military places.
Although
Djerba is an island, the political situation is exactly the same as the one of
Tunisia. I think this is because Djerba is a part of Tunisia.
As a
conclusion I would like to say some little facts about the Tunisian politics.
Tunisia is
a constitutional republic, which is characterized by a legislature, a judiciary
and an executive president. A constitutional republic is a republican form of
government where the powers are limited by law. The government is chosen by
some sections of the population.
Contrary at
what some of you may think, the military is professional so it does not play
any role in national politics. It is used by politicians to put pressure on the
people.
So I can
say that I am happy with the politics in our country. We are not a good example
with our government, but I am happy that the military is not used to put
pressure. The politicians fight their fight and we are looking at it, that is
how I see it.
Up next:
Italy! Pizza, pasta, wine,… Are you excited? I know I am!
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