The Finance and Budget Committee of Tunisia's House of Representatives met in a joint session with the Finance Committee of the National Council of Regions and Districts to discuss the 2027 budget proposal for the House of Representatives. Representatives of the parliament's administration presented an overview of the institution's tasks and strategic orientations, highlighting that the proposed budget for 2027 is 48.751 million dinars, a 0.26% decrease from 2026.
The proposed budget for 2027 includes 34.393 million dinars for rental expenses, a 9.82% increase from 2026, and 6.057 million dinars for operating expenses, which is the same as the 2026 budget. The decrease in overall budget is due to a reduction in rental expenses. The administration's representatives emphasized that the estimates for 2027 took into account the implementation of a grant for members of parliament and the necessary allocations to cover official salary increases for 2026 and 2027.
The parliament's administration also highlighted that the 2027 budget proposal includes allocations for upgrading parliamentary facilities and improving working conditions. The proposal aims to enhance the parliament's ability to carry out its legislative, oversight, and diplomatic functions. According to Article 43 of the 2019 Budget Law, the parliament is responsible for preparing its own budget and setting its priorities in line with its needs and good governance principles.
During the discussion, MPs emphasized the need to increase parliamentary allowances for council staff, citing their crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of parliamentary work. They also called for the necessary legal procedures to be put in place to implement the increase in parliamentary allowances, which has been allocated in the parliament's budget since 2025.
MPs also requested increased funding for foreign missions, citing the growing importance of Tunisia's parliamentary diplomacy and cooperation with international organizations. They criticized the slow pace of activating some parliamentary friendship committees and emphasized the need to modernize parliamentary facilities and enhance transparency.
The parliament's administration provided reassurances regarding ongoing projects, including the introduction of a digital voting and display system in the plenary hall, which is expected to be operational in 2027. They also confirmed that some parliamentary facilities are being upgraded and that new equipment is being procured, with delivery expected by November 15, 2026.
The review of the 2027 budget proposal highlights the ongoing efforts to improve the functioning of Tunisia's parliament and enhance its capabilities. The proposed budget aims to strike a balance between the parliament's needs and the country's fiscal constraints. The Finance and Budget Committee will continue to review and discuss the proposal to ensure that it aligns with the parliament's priorities and goals.
Key points
- The proposed 2027 budget for Tunisia's House of Representatives is 48.751 million dinars, a 0.26% decrease from 2026.
- The budget proposal includes increased allocations for rental expenses and foreign missions.
- MPs emphasized the need to increase parliamentary allowances for council staff and modernize parliamentary facilities.
