Summary:

On 8 April 2023, a spokesman for the pro-President Kais Saied party known as the July 25 Movement claimed that Tunisia would join the BRICS nations as an alternative to alignment with the European Union (EU) and Western partners more generally.

However, the statements were not delivered by an official member of the government, nor have any formal efforts been made to apply for membership in the group. While the July 25 Movement is pro-President Saied, it is unclear to what extent, if any, the party maintains a relationship with the President beyond vocal support. The statements echo President Saied’s recent comments about Tunisia refusing to submit to Europe’s “diktats” concerning a path to economic recovery.

The BRICS nations are a group of emerging economics, including Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, which are, as a group, viewed as a political and economic alternative to the North American and EU countries.

Algeria and Egypt have both previously expressed interest in BRICS membership, with Algeria officially applying for membership in 2022. Mahmoud bin Mabrouk, the spokesman for July 25 Movement, mentioned that Tunisia would look to follow Algeria in pursuit of BRICS membership.

Outlook:  

Assertions that Tunisia could pursue membership amongst the BRICS countries are likely unofficial rhetoric from President Saied’s supporters and not an expression of an official policy move by the Tunisian government. The BRICS bloc of countries is a natural counterpoint for those wishing to express frustration with European diplomacy and economic policy.

Moreover, the likelihood of Tunisia joining the BRICS nations appears low. Tunisia has not been previously mentioned as a potential candidate for membership, nor does Tunisia meet some of the requirements the BRICS countries have previously identified for candidate countries (population size, GDP, etc.)

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