For a redesign of Tunisian-European relations or how to enable Tunisia be successful in its economic transition

Abstract

The relationship between the EU and Tunisia has been limited primarily
to business interests. Before 1995 Tunisia received preferential treatmentas a trading partner. In 1995 a free trade agreement was signed which has
been in place until the present day. Now a new negotiation is taking place
that seeks a “deep and comprehensive free trade area.” As in the past, this
agreement does not look beyond commercial interests.
Since the revolution of 2011, European leaders have put Tunisia forward
as an exception among the Arab world. Tunisia, sharing the same values
defended by Europe, is continually spoken about as an open country and
burgeoning democracy, having respect for all human rights, particularly
the rights of women. It has been noted many times that the success of
Tunisia will produce many positive externalities for the whole of the
Euro-Mediterranean region.
The current economic difficulties of Tunisia are putting all that has been
gained at risk. Tunisia now faces significant economic imbalances, which
necessitate putting in place multifaceted reforms. Under these conditions
the EU is called upon to change its current approach and focus on the
establishment of a special relationship with Tunisia that looks beyond strictly
commercial interests. The EU should treat Tunisia as a country wishing
to apply the pre-accession reforms needed to join the EU, but which will
not ultimately be part of the EU. The objective of this paper is to propose a
new framework for a future EU – Tunisian partnership, as well as define a
strategy, which reflects the deep and privileged relationship and responds
to the long term ambitions shared by both parties for a future that goes
beyond the European policy of a revised neighborhood.
Beyond only economics considerations, the anchoring of Tunisia to
Europe should be seen for Europe as a cornerstone of stability in its area of
influence and its surrounding neighborhood, and for Tunisia, a guarantee
of security and stability for its new democratic institutions.