A wind of protest blows on the benches of the university. The Faculties of Law and Economic Sciences of Tunis have published a common press release prohibiting the wearing of torn pants, short skirts as well as the excessive use of cosmetic products. A decision which, far from going unnoticed, aroused a wave of indignation among the students.
In their press release, the two faculties stipulate that:
- Torn pants and short skirts are now prohibited in the university enclosure;
- The use deemed “excessive” of cosmetic products is also prohibited.
No specific definition was provided concerning what constitutes “excessive use”, leaving room for multiple interpretations.
This decision was received by many students as a direct attack on their personal freedoms and their right to dress and speak freely.
Some also see it as a discriminatory and arbitrary measure, more particularly targeting students and imposing subjective aesthetic standards.
Legal vagueness and disputes
Several voices are rising to denounce the lack of legal basis for such a measure, recalling that the current legal framework guarantees freedom of clothing and freedom of expression.
Student organizations already call to challenge these regulations, believing that it goes beyond the skills of the university administration.