Islam in Tunisia

Islam first reached Tunisia sometime in the late 7th Century (IslamiCity). In the present day, Tunisia is predominantly Muslim, with some estimates stating the percentage of Muslims as high as 99% of the population. The recent revolt, however, has left the future of Islam in Tunisia unclear. In the past, Islamic fundamentalism was frowned upon, and in face, according to one source, two Islamist groups had their members imprisoned because it was deemed that their practice of religion was disrupting the peace, "with about 2,000 arrested in 1986 and 1987" (NationsEncyclopedia). Their was freedom of religion in Tunisia, and Sharia law was not officially recognized (TunisPro).

Now in Tunisia, the religious and political landscape are unclear. Their is a rise in Islamist activity and in fact, an Islamist party just won in a clear victory in Tunisia (LA Times). It is not clear whether this will cause Sharia law to become part of the nation, but religious practices in Tunisia are sure to be more Islamic-centric. Previously, women were encouraged to be part of society and Tunisia was well-known for its freedom for women and freedom of religion, but it is likely that with an Islamist group in power, the country will become much more conservative in its religious practices in regards to women and accepting other religions other than Islam. While there seems to be pessimism towards the rise of an Islamist movement, it seems doubtful that the people of Tunisia would go from one form of government to another, more restrictive government that does not allow the same freedoms enjoyed before. Therefore, I am hopeful that the people will not accept restrictions on their religious freedom and will not allow an oppressive regime sway their beliefs.

Sources:
"Islamic History in Arabia and Middle East." IslamiCity.com - Islam & The Global Muslim ECommunity. Web. 28 Dec. 2011. http://www.islamicity.com/mosque/ihame/Sec4.htm.
"Moderate Islamist Party in Tunisia Takes Wide Election Lead - Latimes.com." Blogs - Latimes.com. Web. 28 Dec. 2011. http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/world_now/2011/10/moderate-islamist-party-in-tunisia-takes-wide-election-lead-.html.
"Religions - Tunisia." Encyclopedia of the Nations - Information about Countries of the World, United Nations, and World Leaders. Web. 28 Dec. 2011. http://www.nationsencyclopedia.com/Africa/Tunisia-RELIGIONS.html.
"Tunisia 2011: Religion in Tunisia - Islam & Sharia, Muslim, Faith." TunisiaInfo 2011 - Actual Information about Tunisia. Web. 28 Dec. 2011. http://www.tunispro.net/tunisia/religion-in-tunisia.htm.
"Tunisia: Country Profile - Tunisia Economy, Government, Religion and Military." Middle East News and Issues from About.com. Web. 28 Dec. 2011. http://middleeast.about.com/od/tunisia/p/me071210.htm.