A recent study by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has highlighted significant disparities in financial inclusion among women and youth in Tunisia. The study, which surveyed 1,457 women and 1,179 young people, found that only 18% of low-income individuals in seven governorates have formal bank accounts. This is despite the fact that these regions represent over half of Tunisia's territory. The study's findings were presented on September 22, 2026, by Nadia Gouta, UNDP's programme manager for inclusive growth and human development.
The study covered the governorates of Gabès, Médenine, Tataouine, Kébili, Gafsa, Tozeur, and Kairouan, which have limited access to banking services. According to the data, these regions have only 200 bank branches, compared to 2,000 nationwide. This scarcity of banking services contributes to the low rate of formal bank account ownership among young people, with 70% of respondents not having a bank account. Furthermore, 35% of students and 23% of unemployed youth believe that the financial system does not cater to their needs.
The study also found that while 50% of respondents trust digital accounts, 98% prefer cash transactions. In fact, nearly half of the women surveyed receive their income in cash. Additionally, 50% of low-income women rely on post offices for financial services. The insurance penetration rate in these seven regions is a mere 0.2%, indicating a significant gap in financial protection. These findings suggest that there is a need for increased access to formal financial services, particularly in rural areas.
The study's results have implications for Tunisia's development plans, particularly the 2026-2030 development plan and the project for a green economy and women's economic empowerment. The project, financed by Canada and implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Economy and Planning, aims to promote economic growth and reduce poverty. Nadia Gouta emphasized that financial inclusion is crucial for unlocking the economic potential of women and youth in these regions.
One of the key challenges identified in the study is the lack of awareness about non-financial services. A staggering 81% of respondents were unaware of the existence of such services. Those who did use these services primarily sought technical and vocational training, but access was limited by the lack of local infrastructure. This highlights the need for increased investment in financial education and infrastructure to support economic development.
The study's findings have significant implications for policymakers and stakeholders. According to Nadia Gouta, financial inclusion goes beyond simply opening a bank account; it is a lever for equality and resilience that can help unlock the economic potential of women and youth. The study's results suggest that targeted interventions are needed to increase access to formal financial services, particularly in rural areas.
The UNDP study provides a comprehensive analysis of the challenges facing financial inclusion in Tunisia. The findings highlight the need for a multi-faceted approach to address the disparities in financial inclusion, particularly among women and youth. By increasing access to formal financial services, Tunisia can promote economic growth, reduce poverty, and improve the overall well-being of its citizens.
Key points
- Only 18% of low-income youth and women in 7 Tunisian governorates have formal bank accounts.
- 98% of young people and women in these regions prefer cash transactions.
- The insurance penetration rate in these seven regions is a mere 0.2%.
