Migration

The challenges of migratory flows in Tunisia: economic, social and political issues

The challenges of migratory flows in Tunisia: economic, social and political issues

Tunisia, a geostrategic crossroads between sub-Saharan Africa and Europe, faces complex migration challenges that reflect deep-seated economic, social and political realities. These migratory flows, whether legal or illegal, raise crucial questions for the country itself, but also for Europe, the final destination of many migrants. This article examines the current issues and proposes alternatives for a more balanced and humane management of these dynamics.

Economic Issues: Unemployment and Brain Drain

Tunisia is going through a persistent economic crisis, marked by high unemployment, particularly among young people. According to the Institut National de la Statistique (INS), by 2023 the youth unemployment rate will have reached 28%, driving many Tunisians to seek opportunities abroad. This situation is exacerbated by the "brain drain" phenomenon. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) estimates that 15-20% of Tunisian graduates leave the country each year, depriving Tunisia of essential skills in key sectors such as health, education and technology.

In addition, the influx of sub-Saharan migrants in transit to Europe is putting further pressure on an already fragile economy. According to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), there are around 10,000 sub-Saharan migrants in Tunisia, of whom 70% live in precarious conditions without adequate access to basic services. This situation creates tensions with local populations, who perceive migrants as competitors for already limited resources.

Social Issues: Tensions, Insecurity and Integration Challenges

Migration flows have profound social repercussions, exacerbated by economic insecurity and inequality. Sub-Saharan migrants, who are often victims of discrimination and exclusion, struggle to integrate into Tunisian society. A UNESCO survey reveals that 35% of young Tunisians are considering leaving the country, while sub-Saharan migrants face difficult living conditions, with limited access to healthcare and employment.

These social tensions are also fuelled by a tense political and media climate. Some public speeches have highlighted concerns about the impact of migration on Tunisian society, which has contributed to a rise in feelings of mistrust and community tensions. According to an Amnesty International report published in 2023, several hundred sub-Saharan migrants have faced forced expulsions and physical attacks, in a context where human rights protection mechanisms appear to be insufficient.

Tunisians themselves, faced with massive unemployment and a lack of prospects, often see migration as a way out of their difficulties. However, illegal crossings to Europe are extremely dangerous. In 2023, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) recorded more than 500 deaths of Tunisian and sub-Saharan migrants in the Mediterranean, underlining the urgent need for a humanitarian and coordinated response.

Political Issues: International Cooperation and Governance Challenges

Politically, Tunisia is torn between its humanitarian obligations and pressure from the European Union (EU) to control migratory flows. In 2023, an agreement was signed between Tunisia and the EU to strengthen border management and limit illegal migration. The agreement provides for financial aid and investment in border security, but has been criticised for not respecting migrants' rights. Organisations such as Amnesty International have warned of the risk of human rights violations, particularly with regard to detention conditions and forced expulsions.

In addition, local and international associations working on migration issues are facing increasing challenges in their mission. Some have reported restrictions on their activities and difficulties in accessing funding, which limits their ability to provide essential humanitarian aid. These challenges underline the need for constructive dialogue between local and international actors and the Tunisian authorities to ensure that migration management respects human rights.

Suggested Alternatives

Faced with these challenges, several solutions can be envisaged for a more balanced and humane management of migratory flows, taking into account both illegal migration and the "brain drain" phenomenon.

• Combating illegal migration through local development : 

   To reduce illegal departures, it is essential to create local economic opportunities. Targeted investment in the regions most affected by unemployment, such as southern Tunisia, could boost employment and reduce the appeal of illegal migration. For example, projects in the sustainable agriculture, renewable energy and tourism sectors could offer viable prospects for young Tunisians.

• Controlling legal migration and combating the "brain drain": 

   To stem the brain drain, Tunisia could introduce talent retention programmes, offering financial and professional incentives to graduates. At the same time, legal mobility agreements with the EU and other countries could allow skilled workers to migrate temporarily, while guaranteeing their return and reintegration into the Tunisian economy.

• Protecting migrants' rights and promoting coexistence: 

   It is crucial to strengthen the mechanisms for protecting migrants' rights, in collaboration with NGOs and international organisations. Awareness-raising campaigns to promote peaceful coexistence and combat prejudice should be conducted, with the support of the EU and the United Nations.

• Enhanced international cooperation: 

   Tunisia and the EU must work together to develop migration policies that respect human rights. This includes financial and technical support to improve reception conditions for migrants, build the capacity of Tunisian institutions and ensure transparent management of the funds allocated.

Migration flows in Tunisia reflect complex economic, social and political challenges that require coordinated and compassionate responses. By adopting local development policies, providing a framework for legal migration, protecting migrants' rights and strengthening international cooperation, Tunisia and Europe can manage these flows in a more balanced way that respects human rights. It is imperative that European decision-makers take these realities into account in order to develop sustainable and humane solutions.

References :

- Institut National de la Statistique (INS), 2023.

- Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), 2023.

- Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), 2023.

- UNESCO, survey on the migration of young Tunisians, 2023.

- Amnesty International, report on the rights of migrants in Tunisia, 2023.

- International Organization for Migration (IOM), 2023.