France announced Wednesday, August 31 the normalization of the issuance of visas in Tunisia, a decision taken jointly by the two countries. Last fall Paris had restricted the granting of visas from Tunisia, Morocco and Algeria. The refusal rate had reached 30% in Tunisia, in order to encourage these countries to fight more against illegal immigration. But this normalization is variously appreciated by Tunisians.
With our correspondent in Tunis, Oumeina Nechi
The normalization of the issuance of French visas has made little noise in Tunisia and leaves many people skeptical, like Latifa, who does not see how this constitutes a significant change. “ The law governing visas in Tunisia is laced with racism and I don’t think that will change. »
For this mother, relations between Tunis and Paris will always remain unbalanced, especially in terms of freedom of movement. ” It is always the stronger state which dominates the weaker state, as well as its people and its youth. »
For Jihed, 23, the visa system is unfair and this normalization only serves the interests of France. ” It is only in his interest, to take advantage again of the Tunisian workforce and the skills of the Tunisians. »
The young man does not dream of going to France. But more and more Tunisians intend to go there in particular to continue their studies. This is the case of Rayen, 18, who sees this normalization in a good light. ” It’s a good thing because when visas were restricted a lot of people lost opportunities and it had a big impact on their lives.. »
As the economic crisis worsens, many graduate Tunisians are moving to Europe or North America.