More imprisoned aid workers freed in Tunis

On 5 January 2026, humanitarians Mohamed Jaou, Sherifa Riahi and another colleague from the NGO France Terre d’Asile Tunisie, were finally released from prison in Tunisia after close to 20 months of detention.

Mr. Jaou and Ms. Riahi were both sentenced to two years in prison, with a suspended sentence for the time remaining, for their legitimate work with refugees. After lengthy pleadings and a long wait, they were released in the early hours of 6 January and reunited with their families and loved ones. Legal Action Worldwide was in Tunis to support the aid workers and their families.

Supporters of the three aid workers outside court in Tunis

“Today, it is above all relief that dominates: Yadh, Mohamed and Sherifa can finally be reunited with their family and loved ones, after 20 long months of separation. Thank you to all those who have tirelessly ensured that their rights are respected,” said France Terre d’Asile.

They were arrested in May 2024, around the same time as Mustapha Djemali and Abderrazek Krimi, who were detained for 18 months and released in similar circumstances in November 2025 (see more information here).

At least two aid workers are still detained in Tunisia and at least 8 more are being prosecuted for providing legal humanitarian assistance to vulnerable populations.