Justice Prevails: Aid workers freed from prison in Tunisia

Tunis/Geneva, 25th November 2025 –

After 18 months of imprisonment, Tunisian aid workers Mustapha Djemali and Abderrazek Krimi are free today. They were released late last night, in a dramatic and emotional reunion with their families.  

Aid workers Mustapha Djemali and Abderrazek Krimi celebrate with their children after being released from prison

81-year-old Mr Djemali and Mr Krimi, in his 60s, had endured hugely challenging conditions while detained, kept in overcrowded cells of over 50 other men. Mr Djemali in particular has various health conditions and lost a considerable amount of weight while in prison.  

They were both arrested in May 2024 for providing legal humanitarian support to refugees in Tunisia, via their organisation Tunisian Council for Refugees (CTR), an implementing partner of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). 

The families were visibly distressed in court yesterday as they listened to hours of delayed submissions by defence lawyers. A verdict came late in the evening, with the two men sentenced to two years in prison and given a suspended sentence for the remaining months to serve – meaning they were immediately free to go. 

The Palais de Justice court in Tunis

Legal Action Worldwide (LAW) provided legal assistance and representation to the families of Mr Djemali and Mr Krimi, as they navigated the confusing and often intimidating Tunisian legal process. They also received support from the Protect Aid Workers mechanism. 

Mustapha Djemali’s children at court before the verdict

LAW’s Executive Director, Antonia Mulvey said:  

“We’re beyond delighted that justice has prevailed. Mustapha Djemali and Abderrazek Krimi’s crucial humanitarian work for refugees in Tunisia has always been legitimate. This decision is incredible news for their families, who will finally be reunited with their loved ones after an agonising wait of 18 months.  

We will continue to work tirelessly for the release of other aid workers still arbitrarily detained in Tunisian prisons. Humanitarians must be able to freely do their imperative work without fear of arrest.” 

For more information, please contact:  

Hannah Copeland  

Global Communications Manager  

Email: [email protected]