Country Profile: Tunisia
Tunisia is situated in Northern Africa, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea, Algeria, and Libya. The country has a population of approximately 11.96 million, with a significant urban majority residing in the northern region. Tunisia's economy is classified as lower-middle income, heavily dependent on sectors like services, agriculture, and industry, while governance has seen significant transformation since the Arab Spring of 2011, with a parliamentary republic structure following the recent constitutional amendments in 2022.
Geography
Tunisia covers an area of 163,610 square kilometers, featuring diverse landscapes ranging from coastal plains to the Sahara desert. The country has a temperate climate in the north with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers and is strategically located in the Mediterranean, making it a vital crossroads for trade and cultural exchange.
- 1,148 km of coastline.
- Highest point: Jebel ech Chambi at 1,544 m.
- Major natural resources include petroleum, phosphates, and iron ore.
- Agricultural land comprises 62.4% of its area (2023 estimate).
People and Society
The population of Tunisia is estimated at 11,962,995 in 2025, predominantly Arab (98%) with a small European (1%) and mixed population. The official language is Arabic, with French widely spoken, reflecting its colonial legacy. The society is largely Muslim (99%).
- 24.4% of the population is aged 0-14 years.
- Life expectancy is approximately 77.3 years (2024 estimate).
- Urbanization rate stands at 70.5% (2023).
- Literacy rate is 86.2% (2023 estimate).
Economy
Tunisia's economy faces challenges including high unemployment, particularly among youth and women, and significant public debt. Key industries include petroleum, mining (especially phosphates), and tourism. The country maintains strong trade relations with the European Union.
- GDP (PPP) estimated at $156.086 billion (2024).
- 16.3% unemployment rate (2024 estimate).
- Exports valued at $19.732 billion (2023).
- Agriculture contributes 9.3% to GDP (2023 estimate).
Government
Tunisia functions as a parliamentary republic, with the president holding significant authority following constitutional changes in 2022. The current president is Kais SAIED, elected in 2019, while the legislature consists of a bicameral structure formed in the 2022 elections.
- 24 administrative divisions (governorates).
- Latest constitution adopted in July 2022.
- Voting age is 18 years with universal suffrage.
- 161 members in the Assembly of People's Representatives (lower chamber).
Military and Security
The Tunisian Armed Forces encompass the Army, Navy, and Air Force, with a notable focus on counter-terrorism and border security. Military expenditures constitute approximately 2.5% of GDP.
- Active-duty personnel strength is around 35,000 (2025).
- Mandatory service for men ages 20-35 for 12 months.
- Tunisia participates in international peacekeeping, with deployments in Central African Republic (840 personnel).
Energy
Tunisia boasts a fully electrified population, with the majority of its energy coming from fossil fuels. Renewable energy sources are growing but remain a small fraction of total capacity.
- 6.639 million kW installed electricity generating capacity (2023).
- Electricity consumption is about 19.153 billion kWh (2023).
- Natural gas consumption reaches 5.131 billion cubic meters (2023).
Environment
Tunisia faces various environmental issues such as limited freshwater resources and waste management challenges. The country is a signatory to multiple international environmental agreements.
- 62.4% of land is allocated for agriculture (2023).
- 4.5% of land is forested (2023).
- Urban areas exhibit a 70.5% population living in cities (2023).
Transportation
Tunisia has a well-developed transport infrastructure, including an extensive railway system and multiple airports servicing domestic and international routes.
- 14 airports and 11 heliports (2025).
- Railways span a total of 2,173 km.
- The merchant marine consists of 72 vessels (2023).
Communications
The communication landscape is characterized by high mobile phone penetration and internet usage, reflecting Tunisia's ongoing modernization efforts.
- 14.4 million mobile subscriptions (2024).
- 72% internet penetration rate (2023 estimate).
- Fixed broadband subscriptions total 1.73 million (2023).
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 11,962,995 | 2025 estimate |
| Area | 163,610 sq km | Total area |
| GDP (PPP) | $156.086 billion | 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment Rate | 16.3% | 2024 estimate |
| Life Expectancy | 77.3 years | 2024 estimate |
| Birth Rate | 11.35 births/1,000 | 2025 estimate |
| Median Age | 34.1 years | 2025 estimate |
| Electric Access | 100% | 2022 estimate |
| Military Expenditure | 2.5% of GDP | 2024 estimate |
| Urban Population | 70.5% | 2023 estimate |
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