Tunisian Elections

On 17 December, Tunisians will cast their ballots in the country's much-anticipated parliamentary elections. The elections are the first following President Kais Saied's suspension of parliament in July 2021, having since extended his executive authority. Combined with a new constitution and electoral law, this has fostered an increasingly restrictive political environment in recent months, heightening domestic and international concerns over Tunisia's democratic backslide.

Overall, sentiment surrounding the parliamentary elections has been negative, amid a boycott from political parties and groups. Widespread political disenfranchisement is likely to contribute to a low voter turnout and the heightened threat of unrest in the coming days and weeks. The incoming government, likely to comprise President Saied's supporters, is set to face continued challenges in advancing economic reforms to secure IMF funding in 2023, due to strong union opposition, which is likely to undermine investor confidence in the coming months.