The reform and democratic transition process in Tunisia is of extraordinary importance. It is both a challenge and an opportunity to be able to show the way to the creation of reliable, long-lasting systems of democratic political participation for the entire area. Because of this importance, the Members of the Club de Madrid strongly condemn the assassination of the opposition leader Chokri Belaid, who was a firm defender of human rights and democratic values, and they express their sincerest condolences to his family and loved ones. At the same time, they demand an immediate investigation of this crime and call on both the Government and the opposition denounce any violent demonstration. The use of force and any destabilizing attitudes is a risk to the progress and social and political equality for which the immense majority of Tunisia has been fighting.
In accordance with what has been expressed by the High Representative of Foreign Affairs of the European Union, Catherine Ashton and the European Commissioner of Enlargement and European Neighbourhood Policy Stefan Füle, the Club de Madrid is convinced that changes towards democracy must be enacted according to the law and in the spirit of constructive and peaceful dialogue between all groups. This dialogue must be based on the mutual confidence that the investigation of the unacceptable death of Chokri Belaid needs to occur as securely and quickly as possible.