The 2026 Ibrahim Index of African Governance (IIAG) has ranked Tunisia 11th in Africa, with a score of 60.9 out of 100 in overall governance. This represents a decline of 5 places over 7 years, from 6th position in 2019. Despite this, Tunisia's score is above the continental average of 50.1 and the North African average of 52.5. The country's ranking was surpassed by Morocco, which rose to 7th position.
The IIAG evaluates governance in 54 African countries across four main dimensions: Security and Rule of Law, Participation, Rights and Inclusion, Economic Opportunities, and Human Development. These dimensions are further broken down into 16 sub-categories and 96 indicators from 51 sources. According to the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, which publishes the IIAG, Tunisia's decline in ranking is concerning, especially when compared to other North African countries.
The IIAG 2026 report highlights that despite global challenges, Africa's overall governance has improved over the past decade. The continent has seen advancements in economic and human development, particularly in infrastructure, healthcare, and education. However, these gains are uneven and fragile, with many countries experiencing deterioration in security, rule of law, and participation.
The report notes that 44 countries, home to 68% of the continent's population, have made progress in economic opportunities. Infrastructure development has been a key driver of this progress, with 52 countries improving their infrastructure. Mobile connectivity, energy access, and internet availability have also shown significant improvements.
Despite these advancements, concerns remain about the decline in security, rule of law, and participation in many countries. The IIAG report highlights that 34 countries have seen a deterioration in security, while 31 countries have experienced a decline in participation, rights, and inclusion. These trends are particularly worrying in large countries such as Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and South Africa.
Mo Ibrahim, founder and president of the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, emphasized that while Africa has shown resilience, economic and social progress will not be sustainable without improvements in security, rule of law, and participation. The IIAG 2026 report underscores the need for African countries to address these challenges to ensure long-term development.
The 2026 IIAG report is based on 319 variables from 59 data sets published by 51 African and international sources. Seychelles tops the ranking, while Morocco has replaced Tunisia in the top 10. South Africa, which ranks 5th, is showing a worrying downward trend. The report provides a comprehensive assessment of governance in Africa, highlighting areas of progress and concern.
Key points
- Tunisia's ranking in the IIAG has declined by 5 places over 7 years, from 6th to 11th position.
- Despite this decline, Tunisia's score of 60.9 out of 100 is above the continental average of 50.1.
- The IIAG report highlights the need for African countries to address challenges in security, rule of law, and participation to ensure sustainable development.
