On October 1, 2026, the Tunisian Ministers of Family and Social Affairs, Asma Al-Jabri and Issam Al-Ahmar, officially opened a national symposium on active aging and practical programs in Tunis. The event, taking place at the International Center for the Promotion of Persons with Disabilities, aims to address the challenges and opportunities presented by Tunisia's aging population. The symposium will focus on implementing the National Strategy for Older Adults by 2030.
Minister Al-Jabri emphasized that the National Strategy for Older Adults by 2030 serves as a reference framework for national participatory policy in the field of aging. She highlighted that the strategy's executive plan includes several practical measures, programs, and actions to determine the roles of stakeholders and establish a governance system to measure progress. The plan also aims to adapt to demographic and social changes.
The Minister stressed the importance of strengthening efforts in active aging by linking the National Strategy for Older Adults to related policies in health, social protection, housing, transportation, urban planning, culture, and digital transformation. This integrated approach seeks to create an inclusive and age-friendly environment for older adults. Al-Jabri also underscored the ministry's efforts to promote the role of older adults as active contributors to society.
Minister Al-Ahmar emphasized the need to shift from a protection and care approach to social systems based on rights, empowerment, and the valorization of experiences. He noted that programs for vulnerable groups are based on Article 53 of the Constitution, which guarantees assistance to elderly people without support. Al-Ahmar highlighted the importance of proactive planning that addresses demographic changes and responds to the needs of people with disabilities and low-income individuals.
The symposium brings together various stakeholders, including government officials, experts, and civil society representatives, to discuss the challenges and opportunities related to active aging in Tunisia. Participants will examine the current situation and future prospects for older adults in the country, with a focus on promoting their social, economic, and cultural participation.
The Tunisian government has made significant progress in addressing the needs of its aging population. According to the United Nations, Tunisia has achieved important milestones in the health sector. The government aims to continue this progress by implementing the National Strategy for Older Adults and promoting active aging.
The national symposium on active aging and practical programs will contribute to the development of effective policies and strategies to address the challenges of an aging population in Tunisia. The event is expected to conclude with recommendations and proposals for promoting active aging and improving the well-being of older adults in the country.
Key points
- Tunisian government launches national symposium on active aging and practical programs to address challenges and opportunities presented by aging population.
