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Three years ago Tunisians ousted long-time dictator Ben Ali. They fought for liberty and dignity, inspiring a global wave of resistance. Today, the structures of the regime remain largely intact. A new constitution has yet to be finalized and police violence continues with impunity. There’s no transitional justice, and many who speak out are judged by the laws of the old system. Among them, there are artists who are defying the state and re-imagining society by freely expressing themselves.
On December 5th Tunisian rapper Weld El 15 stood trial for performing his song “Police Dogs.” He was found guilty of affront to public decency and insulting behavior to public servants. Before going to jail he said, “The least we can get is freedom of speech in Tunisia. We have to fight to the end for our freedom, and for our revolution.”
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