Strengthening EU support for Tunisia

Five years on from the 2011 Revolution that ousted the authoritarian regime of President Ben Ali, Tunisia’s democratic transition is at a critical juncture. The Tunisian people have paved the way for a modern democracy based on freedom of expression, transparent and inclusive elections, the separation of powers, the rule of law and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. Leaders across the political spectrum, the country’s vibrant civil society and the general population have demonstrated their resolve to develop a pluralistic society in which all Tunisians — men and women alike — can enjoy individual freedom and greater participation in economic and political life. This has been recognised by the awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize to the National Dialogue Quartet in December 2015.

The Tunisian experience is a source of hope in the countries of Europe’s immediate neighbourhood, many of which face instability, violence and the return of authoritarian regimes. Yet, despite the undeniable changes brought by the Revolution, political, economic and security difficulties continue to affect the lives of ordinary Tunisians, jeopardising the viability of the transition.

It is in the EU’s strategic interest to have a strong, democratic and stable Tunisia as its neighbour. The EU’s continued commitment to helping Tunisia in its transition to democracy is reflected in the revised European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP), which underlines the need to develop differentiated approaches tailored to the specific situations of the EU’s neighbours. It therefore requires an EU response, adapted to the country’s specific circumstances, that covers a broad range of policy areas to help address the many challenges the transition brings with it and initiatives that would make it possible to fully develop the potential of the already advanced EU-Tunisia partnership.

ESO: Background information: European Union-Tunisia: enhanced partnership and more EU support for Tunisia's democratic transition http://www.europeansources.info/record/european-union-tunisia-enhanced-partnership-and-more-eu-support-for-tunisias-democratic-transition/

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