Tunisia's economy struggles and dissent shrinks five years after Saied's takeover

Economic grievances continue to weigh heavily on Tunisians as the space for dissent narrows under President Kais Saied. Inflation remains above 10 percent, unemployment is hovering near 15 percent, and public debt has risen sharply, prompting frequent street protests and strikes across the country. The government’s response has been increasingly restrictive: authorities have detained dozens of activists, journalists and opposition figures, while new regulations tighten controls over social media and public assemblies. International observers note that the curtailment of civil liberties coincides with Saied’s broader consolidation of power since his 2019 election victory and the 2022 constitutional overhaul that expanded presidential authority.

The combined pressure of a faltering economy and limited avenues for political expression has heightened public frustration. While the administration argues that fiscal reforms and anti‑corruption measures are necessary to stabilize the nation’s finances, critics contend that the crackdown undermines democratic norms and hampers constructive dialogue. As Tunisia approaches the end of the current fiscal year, analysts warn that sustained economic hardship coupled with a shrinking civic space could fuel further unrest, prompting both domestic and foreign stakeholders to monitor the country’s trajectory closely.