Analysis: How Tunisia reached financial meltdown

Tunisia faces a severe economic crisis exacerbated by decades of corruption, clientelism, and lack of strategic planning. The crisis has worsened since President Kais Saied's power grab on July 25, 2021. The Tunisian General Labour Union (UGTT) has been criticized for its role in hindering economic reforms. Tunisia's external debt exceeds $40 billion, and the country faces a budget shortfall of over $3 billion for 2021. Political instability and security issues have deterred investment, leading to high unemployment and inflation. International rating agencies have downgraded Tunisia's credit rating, highlighting the need for urgent economic reforms.

Tunisia: A constitution by the majority for the minority?

As Tunisia approaches the third anniversary of its 2011 revolution, the country is on the verge of ratifying a new constitution. The process, led by the National Constitutional Assembly, has faced numerous delays due to security issues and political crises. The Islamist Ennahda Party made significant concessions, including the exclusion of Sharia law and the inclusion of gender equality. The new constitution aims to stabilize Tunisia and attract foreign investment, aligning with the aspirations of international allies like the EU, UN, and US. Despite the historic moment, there is widespread dissatisfaction with policymakers, particularly due to absenteeism among opposition MPs. The media's coverage of the constitutional vote has been limited, overshadowed by other events and dominated by interests linked to the former regime.