Tunisia

DGRV has begun a longer-term approach to cooperative development in Tunisia. In 2017, DGRV received a request from the Tunisian Ministry of Agriculture, Water Resources and Fisheries (MARHP) to contribute its cooperative expertise to the revision of the legal framework in Tunisia. As a result, consultative and exploratory talks were held. Since January 2021, DGRV has been represented with its own office in the capital Tunis. A fist crucial milestone was the publication of a baseline study on the Tunisian cooperative sector. The study quickly became an important point of reference in the discussion among stakeholders.

In Tunisia, cooperatives have so far primarily existed in agriculture. But they have a great potential to contribute to economic development and job creation in other sectors as well. In this context, cooperatives with innovative business concepts that demonstrate the viability of this model beyond agriculture receive particular attention.

All cooperatives need competent contact points at the state authorities responsible for them. At the same time cooperative unions and associations should support their members with needs-based services. Additionally, the success of primary cooperatives largely depends on the quality of their management. The project strengthens the sector with training, consultancy and coaching on all three levels – state, intermediary structures and primary cooperatives.

Looking ahead, and building on these efforts, the active involvement of young people is crucial for the sustainable development of the cooperative sector. By introducing youth to cooperative principles and positioning cooperatives as an attractive and innovative business model, the sector can tap into new ideas, entrepreneurship and employment potential. Engaging youth today is key to ensuring the long-term relevance and future growth of cooperatives in Tunisia.