Supporting youth policy and extremism prevention

Context

Twelve years after the revolution, Tunisia is a country facing political instability, economic hardship and social division. Autocratic tendencies and stalled reforms stand in the way of democratic change.

High levels of unemployment and a lack of prospects among young people in particular are causing rising crime rates. Instability and insecurity increase susceptibility to radicalisation and recruitment by extremist groups, especially among disadvantaged people. This is partly due to the threat posed by people who have joined radical Islamist movements and are returning from conflict regions or those who have become radicalised in Tunisia.

Objective

Tunisia is implementing policy measures to successfully counter violence and extremism. Preventive approaches are being systematically incorporated within youth policy provision.

Approach

The project primarily supports the nationwide network of around 450 youth centres, employment agencies, young offender institutions and prisons, and thus contributes to improving stability and crisis prevention in Tunisia.

The project:

1. Improves the range of services provided by youth centres for young men and women to prevent violence and extremism
2. Supports the service to facilitate the socio-cultural and professional reintegration of young offenders and vulnerable young people
3. Increases the attractiveness of youth centres in deprived neighbourhoods and regions to reach those considered especially marginalised.

Last update: September 2023