Economic Situation of Jews in Tunisia Reported Worsening Daily

The French evacuation of their base at Gabes, in southern Tunisia, has had a definitely adverse effect on the economic situation of the Tunisian Jews, it was reported here today. The report said that most Jews have lost their sources of livelihood, and many of them have since left Tunisia for Israel. “The taking out of all personal belongings without previous authority from the Treasury has been forbidden,” the report stated. “Difficulties in the issuance of passports are also being made.”

“The economic situation of most Jews in Tunisia is worsening from day to day, the report continued, “due to the general decline in the economic situation. The Government makes things even more difficult by withholding permits, dismissing officials, and compelling Jewish employers to engage a majority of Moslem workers.

“Any cultural activities outside the community are forbidden. As part of the policy of Tunisification and Arabization of the curricula, the headmasters of Jewish schools have been ordered to include as much as 15 hours a week of Arabic studies. Thus the few hours of Hebrew studies, which are formally allowed, have now in fact been pushed out of the syllabus. A decree was issued two months ago forbidding private lessons without previous authorization.

“The number of cases in which Jewish employes in local and foreign companies have been discharged and Arabs taken on in their place has recently increased. Though Arab officials and workers are not up to Jewish standard, this process is gaining momentum. As a result, a reduction of Jewish earnings is felt,” the report stated.