Tunisian Courts Take on Financial Crime: IDLO Bolsters Capacity of Judicial Systems

Amid Tunisia’s constitutional reforms, economic governance plays a pivotal role in ensuring the success of the democratic transition. In response, the International Development Law Organization (IDLO) has been working to enhance the capacity of the country’s magistrates and prosecutors in tackling financial and economic crime.

Enhancing Capacity to Tackle Financial Crime

One of the most significant strides in this area was the establishment of Tunisia’s first-instance court solely dedicated to financial crimes, the Pôle Judiciaire Financier (PJF), in September 2012. IDLO has been instrumental in supporting the training of examining magistrates and public prosecutors, providing them with advanced techniques and procedures for investigating such cases. In addition, IDLO has drafted curricula for investigative and adjudicative processes to ensure efficient and effective handling of financial crime cases.

IDLO’s Comprehensive Approach

IDLO’s contributions extend beyond Tunisia’s legal institutions. The organization is also exploring opportunities for civil society organizations to engage in the fight against financial crime. Plans are underway to involve these organizations in raising awareness and promoting transparency in financial matters, as well as safeguarding the rights of whistleblowers.

Latest Developments

April 2023: The Pôle Judiciaire Financier reported a significant jump in the number of financial crime cases filed, showcasing the public’s growing trust in the court system to address these issues.

Recent Stories

September 2022: The IDLO-supported PJF investigates a large-scale money laundering scheme involving several high-profile individuals.

March 2022: IDLO begins workshops to educate civil society organizations on financial crime investigation methods and advocacy.

Policy Statements

“Strengthening the fight against financial crime is an integral part of Tunisia’s constitutional reforms. We are proud to collaborate with IDLO and contribute to the development of a skilled and dedicated team of investigators,” – Minister of Justice, Mr. Mohamed Ali Arouchi

“We are committed to protecting the rights of whistleblowers and promoting transparency in financial matters. By involving civil society organizations in this process, we hope to create an engaged and participatory society,” – IDLO’s Country Representative, Ms. Samia Slim