Filmmaker Hajer Ben Nasr's documentary focuses on the struggle for gender equality in Tunisia, as seen through the experiences and careers of seven high-profile Tunisian female activists. Following Tunisia's independence from France in 1956, the nation seemed to chart a very different course from other predominantly Islamic countries in regard to women's rights, providing voting privileges and professional opportunities for Tunisian women that were scarce in other Arab lands. But Tunisia has no history of benevolent democracy, and the dictatorial regimes of Habib Bourguiba (who ruled from 1957 to 1987) and Zine El Abidine Ben Ali (who came to power in a coup in 1987 and headed the government until 2011) led to human rights abuses that significantly burdened the country's political and economic development. The interviewees on camera here speak frankly about the struggle for dignity and stability in the midst of authoritarian rule. Most notably Zeineb Chelbi—president of the Association of Mothers of Victims of the Counterterrorism Law—offers jolting commentary about Tunisia's tradition of secret police activities and the torture of prisoners. Although it helps to have some familiarity with the history of this North African republic, Tunisian Women still tells a universally gripping and moving story of strong women activists engaged in a fight for human rights. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (P. Hall)
Tunisian Women: We Will Stand Up
(2013) 56 min. In Arabic w/English subtitles. DVD: $80: public libraries & high schools; $300: colleges & universities. DRA. Third World Newsreel. PPR. Volume 29, Issue 6
Tunisian Women: We Will Stand Up
Star Ratings
As of March 2022, Video Librarian has changed from a four-star rating system to a five-star one. This change allows our reviewers to have a wider range of critical viewpoints, as well as to synchronize with Google’s rating structure. This change affects all reviews from March 2022 onwards. All reviews from before this period will still retain their original rating. Future film submissions will be considered our new 1-5 star criteria.
Order From Your Favorite Distributor Today: