Tunisia’s democratic crisis is also a reflection of the EU’s weak and fragmented commitment to the country. The EU should encourage a return to democracy by alleviating Tunisia’s economic struggles, spurring political reforms, and pressuring regional partners to stop meddling in Tunisian affairs.

Ten years after the Arab Spring, the socioeconomic and governance grievances that fueled the 2010-2011 uprisings are still prevalent across North Africa, and many have worsened in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Government responses to the coronavirus are disrupting civil society around the world. But the pandemic is also catalyzing new forms of civic activism. Members of Carnegie’s Civic Research Network share their insights.

Mass protests garner significant attention, but what happens next is just as vital for achieving real and lasting change.

The UGTT’s reemerging activism signals a growing emphasis in Tunisian politics on economic priorities.

For its democratic transition to survive, Tunisia must simultaneously address the kleptocracy of the previous regime and the emergence of widespread petty corruption.

The Kamour sit-in’s self-sufficient organization, open participatory style, mostly peaceful tactics, and realistic demands—along with the government’s understanding and relative openness to dialogue—is a model that barely exists in other Arab countries.

Despite widespread praise for Youssef Chahed’s anti-corruption efforts, they also risk inflaming elite tensions and undermining Tunisia’s democratic transition.

Case studies from eight countries show how civic activism across the world is evolving and reveal crosscutting themes relevant to the future of civil society support.

Tensions persist between Tunisia and its former ally the UAE, but Tunisia hopes renewed ties could balance out its current dependence on Qatar.