Documentary Reflection

A Siege of Salt and Sand brought to light several key struggles of Tunisia including desertification, agricultural production, water security and describes the power imbalance between government authorities and the general populous. The documentary also discussed briefly the Tunisian revolt in 2010 that sparked the Arab Springs uprisings across the region. This brought about changes including structural adjustment, drove farmers to coastal cities, reoriented the economy for exports, amassed public debt, and deregulated phosphate and tourism sectors. People also called for constitutional protections for political diversity, gender parity, and the environment.

The documentary discussed two major issues: salt and sand. The sea has become an issue for Tunisia as they are facing overfishing, sea level rise, and displacement of coastal business. Salt flats are expanding at the cost of palm trees (65% of the date palms are dead) with sea levels rising 2-4 cm every six months. I thought the example of Djerba was an interesting case study as they described it as such a wonderful place that has been affected by these weather changes such as severe drought and disappearing water reservoirs. One man who was interviewed described the actions of country leadership as challenging the laws of nature and the result of human madness.

Sand encroachment was the secondary focus of the documentary in which families were interviewed about their respective situations. They described how the encroachment paralyzes economic and regional development. Among those who were interviewed were a shepherd who was forced to sell some of his herd because of the economic consequences and families who are on the verge of relocation. Possible solution include building artificial sand dunes with sand and palm fronds. However, combined with desertification and drought it is becoming more difficult to resist the encroachment (nearly 64 % of Tunisia’s land is threatened by desertification). I found it interesting how one man who was interviewed explained how the authorities could solve these issues, but there is a lack of government action and support. Lastly, the documentary discussed how Tunisia suffered the consequences of neoliberal economic policies in the global market.

Although the tone of the video was somber, it was informing. It highlighted genuine concerns of people living in Tunisia and sought out opinions of the population. The documentary emphasizes how difficult tackling these issues caused by climate change are with an authoritative, not accountable state.