BAN URGES RESTRAINT AND DIALOGUE AMID ESCALATING VIOLENCE IN TUNISIA

By UN

10 January - Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today urged restraint after violent clashes between Tunisian security forces and protesters reportedly claimed at least 14 lives in recent days.

According to media reports, the Tunisian Government today ordered all schools and universities to be indefinitely closed following continuing violent protests linked to frustrations with poor job prospects and the country's leaders.

“The Secretary-General calls for restraint and urges all parties to seek to resolve differences through dialogue,” stated a note issued by his spokesperson.

“He underscores the importance of full respect for freedom of expression.”