The Tunisian parliament's committees on social services and development, health, women's and family affairs, and social affairs and disabilities convened a joint session on November 3, 2026, to discuss the 2027 plans for the Ministry of Family, Women, Childhood, and Elderly Affairs. The session was attended by Minister of Family Affairs Asma Gabbi and her delegation. Gabbi presented an overview of the ministry's key programs, including initiatives for women and families, childhood, and elderly care, as well as leadership and support programs.
The ministry's proposed budget for 2027 stands at 331,690 million dinars, allocated across various sectors. Rental expenses account for approximately 58% of the budget, while operating expenses make up around 6%. Investment and intervention expenses comprise about 21% and 16%, respectively. The session saw lawmakers discussing social issues affecting Tunisian families, including the evolving role of families in shaping young people's values and the rise in divorce rates.
Parliamentarians also examined demographic indicators from the 2024 general census, which revealed a decline in population growth and an aging population. They emphasized the need for improved elderly care policies and increased state and societal involvement in providing a dignified life for seniors. Additionally, lawmakers focused on the limited availability of support programs for women and the growing issue of violence against women.
The discussion also touched on issues related to childhood, including the impact of digital addiction on children, rising violence among young people, and the exploitation of children in begging and human trafficking. Furthermore, lawmakers noted a shortage of childcare institutions in many areas. They also highlighted the inadequacy of elderly care services, citing a lack of sheltered institutions and insufficient mobile teams to cater to the elderly population.
In response to lawmakers' queries, Minister Gabbi stressed the importance of developing public policies that address societal changes and emerging needs. She mentioned programs aimed at preparing couples for marriage and supporting parents in understanding the needs of new generations. Gabbi also emphasized the ministry's efforts to empower women economically and provide targeted interventions for vulnerable groups.
The minister announced plans to establish specialized teams to support women and children who are victims of violence across different regions. She also highlighted efforts to improve services for the elderly by revising regulations governing care institutions and enhancing the quality of care provided. These initiatives aim to address the challenges faced by families, women, and the elderly in Tunisia.
The joint session demonstrates the Tunisian parliament's commitment to addressing pressing social issues. Key points discussed included the need for comprehensive policies to support families, women, and the elderly, as well as the importance of allocating sufficient resources to address these challenges.
Key points
- The Tunisian government plans to allocate 331,690 million dinars for the Ministry of Family, Women, Childhood, and Elderly Affairs in 2027.
- Lawmakers emphasized the need for improved elderly care policies and increased state and societal involvement in providing a dignified life for seniors.
- The ministry aims to establish specialized teams to support women and children who are victims of violence across different regions.
