EU aid to Tunisia generally well spent, but management shortcomings need to be addressed
EU financial assistance to Tunisia after the 2011 Arab Spring was generally well spent, according to a new report from the European Court of Auditors. The aid contributed significantly to Tunisia’s democratic transition and economic stability after the revolution. However, say the auditors, there were a number of shortcomings in the European Commission’s management of the assistance.
Tunisia’s “Jasmine revolution” in January 2011 was the first of the Arab Spring series of uprisings. Since then, Tunisia has substantially advanced its transition to democracy during a period of uncertainty characterised by political instability, social unrest and terrorist attacks. The European Union has provided considerable political and substantial financial support to help the country cope with these new challenges. Over the period 2011 to 2015, EU assistance to Tunisia totalled €1.3 billion.
The Auditors found that the European External Action Service and the Commission responded quickly with financial support to address the two main challenges: the economic crisis and the transition to democracy. But the Commission tried to tackle too many areas, which meant that the potential impact of its aid was diluted and its numerous activities were difficult to manage. Although coordination with the main donors and within EU institutions and departments was good, there was no joint programming with the Member States.
“Tunisia is struggling to maintain economic stability and security has become an important challenge for the country”, said Mr Karel Pinxten, the member of the European Court of Auditors responsible for the report. “Against such a background, the effective management of EU financial support is paramount”.
Press Release: EU aid to Tunisia generally well spent, but management shortcomings need to be addressed, say Auditors
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