In a significant development, a Tunisian court has mandated the suspension of the Tunisian Forum for Economic and Social Rights (FTDES), one of the country’s most prominent human rights organizations, for a period of one month. This decision follows a similar suspension imposed on the Tunisian Association for Democratic Women (ATFD), a leading feminist group, just days prior. The move underscores the escalating pressures faced by civil society organizations under President Kais Saied’s administration, which has been accused of systematically undermining post–Arab Spring democratic freedoms. FTDES spokesperson Romdhan Ben Amor criticized the suspension, describing it as a diversionary tactic to shift focus from pressing national issues, including ongoing environmental protests in Gabes. He further asserted that the organization was targeted for its advocacy on migration and its involvement in high-profile cases related to state security. Ben Amor emphasized FTDES’s commitment to financial transparency and announced plans to appeal the suspension. Critics argue that these measures are part of a broader strategy to stifle the independence of civil society, particularly since Saied’s 2021 consolidation of power. The president has frequently framed foreign funding as a national threat, accusing NGOs of serving foreign interests and destabilizing the country. FTDES is among numerous organizations subjected to rigorous financial and tax audits in recent months, as authorities intensify scrutiny over their operations and funding sources.