Tunisia Protests Erupt Over Toxic Phosphate Plant
The Spin
Pro-government narrative
Tunisia's phosphate expansion represents crucial economic recovery for a nation in a serious financial crisis. The government is implementing smart infrastructure with renewable energy and seawater desalination to modernize operations. Boosting production from 3 million to 14 million tons by 2030 will restore Tunisia's position as a leading global exporter and provide desperately needed revenue for economic development, benefitting all Tunisians.
Government-critical narrative
The toxic phosphate factory in Gabès is literally killing people with radioactive waste and cancer-causing emissions. Families are suffocating in their homes, while over 120 people have been hospitalized from breathing in toxic fumes that smell like burnt rubber. The government has broken its 2017 promise to close this death trap, now wanting to increase production fivefold because it prioritizes profits flowing into the pockets of a few over human lives.
Metaculus Prediction
Public Figures
© 2025 Improve the News Foundation.
All rights reserved.
Version 6.16.0