On September 24, 2026, Moez Joudi, president of the Tunisian Institute of Administrators, emphasized the need for Tunisian companies to strengthen their governance practices. He highlighted the importance of transparency, risk management, and anti-corruption measures in line with international standards. Joudi's call to action comes as the number of women chairing boards of directors has surpassed 30. This development indicates progress in promoting gender diversity in corporate leadership.
According to Joudi, international norms place increasing emphasis on various dimensions, including transparency, risk management, anti-corruption, and environmental and social criteria. These governance standards encompass the rules and practices that govern a company's direction and control, such as transparent decision-making, accountability of executives and administrators, and conflict of interest prevention. In Tunisia, these standards are supported by regulations set by the Central Bank of Tunisia and the Financial Market Council.
The Tunisian Institute of Administrators has noted that several Tunisian companies have made significant strides in governance, becoming benchmarks in the Maghrebi, African, and international arenas. However, other companies still need to enhance their governance practices. Joudi stressed that adhering to these criteria is crucial for companies seeking to expand and access external financing, particularly given the requirements related to environmental sustainability, employee rights, and social responsibility.
The representation of women in leadership positions is another key aspect of good governance, as highlighted by Joudi. Banks and companies are encouraged to assign more responsibilities to qualified women within their boards of directors, particularly in areas such as risk management, governance, and strategy development. A notable increase in female representation has been observed, with over 30 women now holding board positions, up from around four previously.
The Tunisian Institute of Administrators aims to sustain this momentum in collaboration with the Bourse de Tunis, the Financial Market Council, and other public and private institutions in Tunisia, the Maghreb, and Africa. This will be achieved through continuous training programs and capacity-building initiatives. By promoting good governance practices, the institute seeks to support the growth and development of Tunisian companies.
Joudi's remarks underscore the evolving expectations surrounding corporate governance in Tunisia. As the business landscape becomes increasingly complex, companies must adapt to meet international standards and best practices. The Institute of Administrators will play a vital role in guiding Tunisian companies toward improved governance, transparency, and accountability.
The push for better governance in Tunisia comes at a critical time, as the country seeks to enhance its business environment and attract investment. With over 34,750 business closures recorded between 2020 and 2024, there is a pressing need for companies to strengthen their governance and risk management practices. By doing so, Tunisian companies can improve their competitiveness and contribute to the country's economic growth.
Key points
- Tunisian companies are urged to improve their governance practices to meet international standards and access external financing.
- The number of women chairing boards of directors in Tunisia has surpassed 30, indicating progress in promoting gender diversity in corporate leadership.
- The Tunisian Institute of Administrators will continue to promote good governance practices through training programs and capacity-building initiatives.
