Critics abound as Tunisia demands mandatory vaccination pass

COVID-19 vaccination passes have become obligatory for Tunisians, who will now be asked for proof they have received both vaccine doses to enter public spaces or keep working at state institutions, universities and certain private businesses

TUNIS, Tunisia -- COVID-19 vaccination passes became obligatory for Tunisians on Wednesday, who now must have proof of two vaccine doses to enter public spaces and to keep working at state institutions, universities and some private businesses.

But human rights groups called for a delay to the process, pointing out that people were struggling to get vaccinations and obtain passes, and labeling the move “unnecessarily severe.” To date, around 47% of the population has been fully vaccinated.

The measure was passed by decree by President Kais Saied in October to drive the nation’s vaccination campaign, one of his first decrees since suspending parliament and giving himself sweeping executive and legislative powers.

The pass will be required for six months for all Tunisians 18 and above, as well as foreign residents in the North African country. The pass will be required to enter certain businesses, public transport, cafes and restaurants, as well as areas for leisure, culture, sports and worship. People without a pass could also be turned away from banks, stores and supermarkets.