Brussels, 27/01/2014 (Agence Europe) - On Monday 27 January, the EU reacted positively to Tunisia's completion of a crucial phase of its institutional reform. On Sunday 26 January, it adopted its constitution by nearly 92% of the MPs' votes, and announced the formation of a new government.
Tunisia unveiled the composition of its new national unity government, all of the members of which are non-partisan, most of them high-level officials. They are tasked with concluding the transition phase and preparing the country for general, presidential and legislative elections. One of the government's most pressing tasks will be to redress the country's economy, which has been hard-hit by the effects of the political crisis in the country and the EU has on many occasions stressed its commitment to supporting this procedure.
These two steps forward in the democratisation of Tunisia, which led the way in the uprisings which shook - and are still shaking - the Mediterranean Arab zone, came on a symbolic day in the country's history and fight for social equality, which is celebrated on 26 January of every year. On this day in 1978, Tunisia experienced the “bread riots” which are firmly established in the country's collective memory. This is the first constitution in the Arab world which establishes gender equality, severs the link between religion and state and brings in a strict separation of powers and democratic controls of these.
The European commissioner for neighbourhood policy, Stefan Füle, welcomed this as a “historic moment”. “Congratulations to the constituent assembly of Tunisia and its people on their new constitution - a model for the region”, he added (our translation).
Catherine Ashton, the High Representative of the EU, has published a statement. She congratulates Tunisia on this “important step forward in its democratic transition” and “welcomes the joint efforts of the authorities, political actors and civil society organisations, particularly those of the 'Quartet'”. She notes that “Tunisia has been able to react positively to the internal political challenges and to take the initiative of implementing national dialogue suited to its own realities, which has allowed it to continue to steer a course towards transition. The constitution will ensure the promotion and protection of the fundamental rights of the citizens as well as the democratic legitimation of its institutions (…). I also welcome the appointment of Mr Mehdi Jomâa to the post of prime minister, a further step in the consensual process provided for by national dialogue. The EU remains strongly committed to stand alongside Tunisia to face the challenges of the months ahead” (our translation).
Schulz: Tunisia shows its democratic determination once again
President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz also described it as an “historic day” and sent his “warmest congratulations to the people of Tunisia following this strong majority vote in favour of the new constitution”. “I welcome the spirit of compromise and consensus and the sense of responsibility which have prevailed over partisan interests”, he added. He paid “tribute to the resolute commitment of all political and social forces in the transition process to bring about a democratic, plural, modern Tunisia, rich with its thousand-year historical heritage”. Schulz said that, “once again, Tunisia has shown its determination to commit to the path of democracy, fundamental freedoms and equality for all citizens, which are now guaranteed by the basic laws of the country. Many challenges remain for the new government of Mr Mehdi Jomaâ, starting with economic recovery and arranging the forthcoming elections. Tunisia has many assets at its disposal and will be able to count on the indefatigable support of the EU in the European Parliament”, the EP President concluded. (FB/transl.fl)