Summary:

On 28 December 2022, the Union Generale Tunisienne du Travail (UGTT) announced plans for a two-day strike of public sector transport workers in late January. The strike, which will include public workers in the air, sea, and land transport sectors, came with the announcement of the 2023 Finance Law, which includes a 2023 budget that would cut public sector wages. Furthermore, the UGTT announced plans on the same day to pursue a national dialogue with several other prominent civil society groups to address the country’s economic and political woes.

Outlook:  

The release of the 2023 Finance Law indicated the Tunisian government’s intentions to pursue the International Monetary Fund (IMF)-stipulated reforms tied to a $1.9 billion loan deal. Opposition from the UGTT has been telegraphed early by the union’s leader, Nourredine Taboubi, who has promised to resist the austerity measures called for by the IMF and other lenders. We will continue to monitor how the UGTT responds to the reform program, particularly as it relates to the union’s ability to paralyze the country with strikes and demonstrations.

Explore our services or speak with our team of North Africa-based risk experts.