Job partnerships and promotion of small and medium-sized enterprises in Tunisia II

Context

More than ten years after the Arab Spring, Tunisia is considered a regional pioneer in democratisation. However, the unemployment rate is high, especially among young people. The country remains susceptible to economic and social crises.

At the same time, Tunisia has undeniable economic advantages, with its proximity to Europe and the high level of education of its workforce fostering investment and cooperation.

Aiming to promote economic growth and create career prospects, especially for young people, the Special Initiative ‘Decent Work for a Just Transition’ supports private stakeholders in making long-term investments in Tunisia.

Objective

The support for companies is increasing the number of jobs in Tunisia.

Approach

The project covers three fields of activity:

• Together with companies, it develops approaches to expand investments and create new jobs. This includes needs- and market-orientated education and training as well as innovation promotion and support in order to drive forward climate-friendly development in Tunisia.
• The project specifically supports small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups. In additional, a funding programme aims to strengthen the skills of growth-oriented SMEs in Tunisia.
• Companies involved in policy dialogue that deal with the legal investment framework and state intervention also receive assistance. In cooperation with the Tunisian Aerospace Industries Association and the Tunisian Automobile Association, the project works to improve business conditions in the mobility sector and ensure that the project measures have a long-term impact.

The approaches reflect the priorities of the Tunisian industrial and innovation strategy 2035 and the priorities of the competitiveness pact for the mobility industry concluded between the Tunisian Government and the automotive industry.

Last update: November 2023