Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
Nearly four years into its transition, Tunisia has successfully navigated multiple political crises, produced a constitution, and staged successful parliamentary elections. The country exemplifies that democracy can be successful in the Arab world.
The upcoming Tunisian parliamentary elections have different implications for the two main parties contesting the vote. For Ennahda, the goal is to solidify its standing as Tunisia’s central political actor while for Nidaa Tounes, a win is necessary to remain politically viable.
Talk of Tunisia’s elections has focused on parties and individuals, not issues, leaving many citizens unsure for whom to vote.
The increased role of Tunisia’s security apparatus is generating fears of a potential return of the police state.
The specter of terrorism in Tunisia may force a postponement of planned parliamentary and presidential elections and derail the country's political transition – the Arab Spring’s only apparent success story.
Reducing the role of the EU institutions in foreign policy making has severely dented the union’s standing, credibility, and influence in the Arab world and beyond.
Across the Arab world, states are emerging scarred by conflicts and revolutions. These states are often in dire need of national reconciliation efforts.
After a turbulent and highly polarizing year, Tunisia’s passage of an election law on May 2 and the consequent upcoming elections give reason for optimism about the country’s transition.
Tunisia’s secular parties, largely sidelined since the 2011 revolution, have a chance to gain power—but only if they can tackle internal divisions and learn to cooperate.
Despite its contradictions, Tunisia’s new constitution has paved the way for effective reform. But more work must be done to truly put the country on a stable, democratic path.