The European Commission and the European External Action Service published their first report on the state of EU-Tunisia relations in 2015-2016, in accordance with the revised European Neighbourhood Policy and prior to the Association Council being to be held on 11 May 2017.

Six years on from the 2011 revolution, and particularly over the past two years, there has been tangible progress, in particular as regards democratic consolidation and promotion of good governance, enhanced security, and exchange and integration between the people of Tunisia and Europe. The EU’s constant support, which began immediately after the revolution, was further displayed when Tunisia was associated in the Horizon 2020 research programme and the Erasmus+ programme, and when EU-Tunisia partnerships for both youth and mobility were adopted.

“Since the 2011 revolution, Tunisia has been a ray of hope for our common region. It has been a beacon for change and for the aspirations of the Mediterranean people. Today, Tunisia needs to consolidate what it has achieved over the past few years. The change initiated in Tunisia must continue, and we, as Europeans, stand alongside the Tunisians and the young people of Tunisia, who are the country’s great wealth, every step of the way. Through these actions, the European Union is demonstrating its continuing support for Tunisia. We will continue to work to deepen our collaboration in all possible areas – political, cultural, economic, social and security-related – and to intensify exchanges between our societies and between our young people, based on the conviction that this will lead to a positive outcome.” declared the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Federica Mogherini.

The Commissioner for European Neighbourhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations, Johannes Hahn said: “Tunisia is facing a major challenge: to translate the incredible democratic achievements of the past years into tangible successes, and to create growth and employment, thereby giving the people of Tunisia, in particular its young people, prospects for the future. With the joint Communication presented in Autumn 2016, the EU tabled a series of proposals to support Tunisia in its reform efforts, mobilising a whole range of instruments, including substantial financial assistance. The recent adoption by the Tunisian Parliament of the Five-Year Development Plan 2016-2020 will make it possible to anchor the EU’s financial support in a coherent and targeted strategy. It is now urgent to move into high gear and translate these reforms into day-to-day life.”

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Press release

Full report

EU-Tunisia Association Council – 11 May 2017

EU Neighbours South – Mogherini confirms EU’s commitment to accompany Tunisia and support its youth

Relations between the EU and Tunisia – Factsheet

EU cooperation with Tunisia

Q&A: Supporting Tunisia’s transition: a strategic priority for the EU

EU Delegation to Tunisia – website and Facebook page