On October 6, 2026, Tunisian President Kaïs Saïed received Prime Minister Sarra Zaafrani Zenzri and Minister of Employment and Vocational Training Riadh Chaouad at the Carthage Palace. The meeting focused on implementing Law No. 18 of 2025, which aims to recruit long-term unemployed university graduates into the public sector and civil service. This law is part of the government's efforts to address unemployment and provide job opportunities for qualified graduates.
President Saïed discussed the accumulated issues over decades that have contributed to the current unemployment situation. He highlighted the problem of recruitment based on falsified diplomas or without required qualifications. The President emphasized that these unfair practices have led to the waste of public funds and denied opportunities to those who deserve them. He stressed that the only valid "diploma" for securing a job was previously based on affiliation to a particular party or group.
According to President Saïed, today's unemployed individuals did not choose to be jobless but were victims of well-known practices and unjustified privileges. He argued that those who deserved a job were denied one in favor of those who did not merit it. The President emphasized that this stage requires hard work, sincerity, and loyalty, rather than false polemics. He expressed confidence in the Tunisian people's unwavering conscience and determination to overcome challenges.
President Saïed praised the Tunisian people for their sacrifices in achieving independence, employment, and national dignity. He noted that despite difficulties and duplicité practices, the people continue to move forward, undeterred. The President reaffirmed his commitment to working tirelessly to honor promises made to the people. He expressed optimism that Tunisia will overcome challenges and achieve its aspirations and demands.
The implementation of Law No. 18 of 2025 aims to provide job opportunities for long-term unemployed university graduates. This move is expected to address the issue of unemployment and provide a fair chance for qualified graduates to secure public sector jobs. The law is part of the government's efforts to reform the recruitment process and ensure merit-based hiring.
President Saïed's emphasis on fairness and merit-based hiring reflects his administration's commitment to transparency and accountability. His statements also highlight the need to address the root causes of unemployment and ensure equal opportunities for all. The President's meeting with government officials demonstrates his focus on finding solutions to the country's challenges.
The Tunisian government's efforts to address unemployment and promote fair recruitment practices are crucial for the country's economic and social development. President Saïed's statements and actions demonstrate his commitment to creating a more just and equitable society. The implementation of reforms and laws aimed at promoting merit-based hiring will help to build trust and confidence in the government's ability to address the country's challenges.
Key points
- President Saïed emphasizes fairness and merit-based hiring in public sector recruitment.
- The Tunisian government implements Law No. 18 of 2025 to recruit long-term unemployed university graduates.
- President Saïed expresses confidence in the Tunisian people's determination to overcome challenges.
