Tunisia’s Crisis Deepens: Governance Issues, Corruption, and Economic Woes Erode Public Trust
Introduction
Tunisia is facing a perfect storm of governance issues, corruption, and economic woes that are eroding public trust in the government and institutions. The country has been plagued by political instability since the 2021 coup, which has led to a lack of faith in state institutions.
Governance Issues
Despite efforts to combat organized crime, corruption remains rampant in Tunisia. Reports of shortages in essential goods such as food products, sugar, rice, bottled water, and petroleum derivatives are common. The official discourse often blames organized crime for these issues, but experts say this is an exaggeration used to justify the government’s lack of action.
Inadequate Accountability Systems
Tunisia’s accountability systems are also inadequate, with a new constitution that does not provide sufficient checks and balances on power. Anti-corruption legislation has been weak in the past, and the National Commission for the Fight against Corruption was shut down by the authorities in 2021.
Challenges in the Criminal Justice System
The country’s criminal justice system is facing numerous challenges, including:
- Politicization
- Lack of independence
- Understaffing
- Limited specialized expertise
The dissolution of the Supreme Judicial Council and the creation of a temporary council have raised concerns about the president’s authority to dismiss judges without defining their professional duties.
Human Rights Concerns
The police force has been accused of using violence against protesters and detainees, with reports of physical and moral violations during arrests and interrogations in security and detention centers. Human rights organizations are calling for the police to respect the law and ensure access to medical examination, lawyers, and family for those arrested.
Economic Challenges
Tunisia’s economy is also struggling, with a severe economic crisis exacerbated by political strife and the COVID-19 pandemic. The informal economy is expanding, while there are few economic opportunities due to:
- High inflation
- Unemployment
- Marginalization
- Regional economic inequality
- Underdevelopment
- Absence of effective reforms
Government Response
The government’s inability to access global financial markets and mobilize state resources has worsened the situation. Despite improvements in investment policy frameworks, economic policies have stagnated or declined.
Challenges for Civil Society Organizations
Civil society organizations are also facing challenges, including:
- Growing hostility towards those involved in victim and witness support activities
- Limited visibility of the National Authority’s work to prevent human trafficking
- Deterioration of press freedom since the 2019 elections, with politicians openly attacking journalists
International Cooperation
International cooperation over organized crime remains a concern. While efforts to cooperate on cybersecurity resilience have increased, the country still lacks clear crime prevention and anti-crime policies.
Conclusion
The Tunisian government must take urgent action to address these governance issues, corruption, and economic woes to restore public trust and ensure the country’s stability and prosperity.