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January 11, 2011

Death Toll in Tunisia Rises to 35; Schools Indefinitely Shut Down 
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In Tunisia, at least 35 people have died in recent days as a result of
clashes with police during protests. The International Federation for
Human Rights says the death toll may be as high as 50. On Monday, the
Tunisian Education Ministry closed the country's schools and
universities indefinitely. Youth unemployment has been a motivating
factor in the protests, as well as government censorship. Tunisian
President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, who has described the protests as
"terrorist acts," has promised to create 300,000 jobs. Critics of Ben
Ali remain skeptical, however, suggesting that the president is making
empty promises.



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