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Tunis News

World news Affecting Tunisia

Tunisia continues to navigate its role in regional diplomacy amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. The government has called for restraint between Israel and Hezbollah, reaffirming its neutral stance. Meanwhile, Tunisia has strengthened economic ties with Algeria and Libya to boost cross-border trade and energy cooperation. The country also faces increasing migration pressures, with more sub-Saharan African migrants arriving en route to Europe, prompting debates over border security and humanitarian aid.

Economic News

Tunisia’s economy remains under strain as inflation hovers around 8%, driven by rising food and fuel prices. The government has secured a new loan agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) worth $1.9 billion, aimed at stabilizing public finances and implementing subsidy reforms. The Tunisian dinar has weakened slightly against the euro, impacting import costs.

Tourism revenues show positive signs, with a 15% increase in visitors compared to last year, particularly from European markets. However, unemployment remains high at nearly 16%, with youth joblessness exceeding 35%. The private sector has urged faster reforms to attract foreign investment.

Political News

President Kais Saied has reshuffled key cabinet positions, replacing the ministers of interior and finance in what analysts see as an effort to consolidate control amid growing public discontent. Opposition parties have criticized the moves as authoritarian, while Saied’s supporters argue the changes will improve governance.

Tunisia’s relations with the European Union remain tense over migration policies, with the EU pushing for stricter border controls in exchange for financial aid. Meanwhile, Tunisia has joined the "BRICS Friends" group, signaling interest in closer ties with non-Western economic blocs.

Entertainment News

The Carthage International Festival has kicked off in Tunis, featuring performances by renowned Arab and African artists, including Egyptian singer Amr Diab and Tunisian rapper Balti. The festival, running until late July, includes film screenings, theater productions, and art exhibitions.

Local cinemas are screening the Tunisian film Under the Fig Trees, which has gained international acclaim. Meanwhile, Netflix has announced a new Tunisian original series set to premiere later this year, focusing on the country’s modern social issues.

Election News

Preparations for Tunisia’s upcoming municipal elections in late 2024 are underway, with the Independent High Authority for Elections (ISIE) finalizing candidate lists. These elections are seen as a test of President Saied’s political reforms, which have centralized power in the presidency. Opposition groups remain skeptical, alleging restrictions on fair competition.

Legal News

A Tunisian court has sentenced several former officials to prison in a high-profile corruption case linked to the Ben Ali era. Meanwhile, human rights organizations have raised concerns over increasing restrictions on press freedom, citing arrests of journalists critical of the government.

In a landmark ruling, a Tunisian court recognized the inheritance rights of a woman married to a foreigner, marking a step forward in gender equality.