The Tunisian Parliament and the National Council of Regions and Districts commenced discussions on the 2027 social affairs budget, estimated at 4.227 billion dinars. This session, held at the Parliament in Bardo, marks a crucial step in the country's financial planning. The proposed budget for social affairs reflects a 3.6% increase compared to the current year. This information was relayed through a joint report by the Health, Women's Affairs, Family, Social Affairs, and Disability Committee of the House of Representatives and the Services and Social Development Committee of the National Council of Regions and Districts.
According to the report, the budget allocations include 341.52 million dinars for leasing expenses and 28.9 million dinars for operating expenses. A significant portion, approximately 3.8 billion dinars, is allocated for interventions and investments, with an additional 31.2 million dinars for related activities. These funds are distributed across five programs, including 36.1 million dinars for the Employment and Professional Relations Program and 1.84 billion dinars for the Social Security Program.
The Social Affairs Ministry's budget for 2027 is primarily focused on several key areas. These include employment and professional relations, social promotion, social security, migration, and affairs concerning Tunisians abroad. The Ministry aims to continue ensuring decent working conditions by reducing individual and collective labor disputes and increasing workplace inspections. Additionally, the Ministry plans to enhance social dialogue structures and improve coverage in the field of occupational health and safety.
In terms of legislative actions, the Ministry is preparing a draft law to amend the Labor Code. This amendment seeks to empower labor inspectors to mediate individual and collective disputes, thereby alleviating pressure on labor courts and promoting social peace. Another draft law is being prepared to regulate remote work in the private sector, aiming to make labor legislation more flexible and aligned with technological advancements and rapid changes in the job market.
The report also addresses challenges posed by platform-based work and electronic applications on labor laws. Many workers in these sectors are classified as independent service providers, despite being in a legally dependent relationship, which exposes them to various burdens and risks. This situation necessitates a flexible legislative framework that guarantees their rights.
The Ministry is working on a comprehensive draft law to reform the social security system, which suffers from structural imbalances that have worsened over time. This draft law aims to establish fundamental principles for an inclusive reform, addressing the system's shortcomings and enhancing its efficiency.
Key aspects of the 2027 budget for social affairs include a focus on employment, social security, and social promotion. With its proposed allocations and legislative initiatives, the Ministry aims to tackle pressing social and economic challenges. The discussions in parliament will be crucial in shaping the final budget and ensuring it aligns with the country's social and economic objectives.
Key points
- The 2027 social affairs budget in Tunisia is estimated at 4.227 billion dinars, marking a 3.6% increase from the current year.
Reporting sources
- Radio Monastir · Radio Monastir
