Overview of Tunisia

Profile

Tunisia is a strategic crossroads embracing the Mediterranean to the north and Sahara Desert to the south, having experienced diverse rule from ancient Carthage through Rome, Arab, Ottoman, and France. After independence in 1956, it advanced relatively moderate secularism and women's liberation policies, with education levels and social infrastructure high among African nations. The 2011 "Jasmine Revolution" sparked the Arab Spring, with democratic institutions and economic reforms still progressing. Rich tourism resources including Roman ruins, medinas, beach resorts, oases and salt lakes, with attractive Mediterranean cuisine combined with spices.

Official name: Republic of Tunisia
Common name: Tunisia
Numeric code: 788
Alpha-3 code: TUN
Alpha-2 code: TN
Population: Approximately 12.3 million (2023)
Population density: Approximately 76 people/km2
Primary languages: Arabic, French, Berber (minority)
Major religions: Islam (Sunni)
National anthem: حماة الحمى (Defenders of the Homeland)
Calling code: +216
Internet TLD: .tn

History

Beginning with Carthage, underwent Roman, Arab, Ottoman, French rule and gained independence in 1956. Political system greatly transformed by 2011 democratic revolution.

After Carthage founding in 814 BC, Tunisia prospered as Mediterranean trade center but was defeated in Punic Wars with Rome and became province. Arabs arrived in 7th century bringing Islamization, Hafsid and other dynasties rose and fell before becoming Ottoman Empire territory in 16th century. Became French protectorate from late 19th century, with nationalist movement led by Habib Bourguiba achieving independence in 1956. After Ben Ali regime established in 1987, economy grew while corruption and repression worsened. Youth unemployment and social discontent intensified, with 2010 self-immolation protest triggering "Jasmine Revolution," toppling long dictatorship next year. Multi-party system taking root after constituent assembly election and new constitution adoption, though economic stagnation and political conflict remain current challenges.

Geography & climate

Long narrow territory with Tell mountains and fertile Medjerda plain in north, dry steppe plateau in center, and salt lakes and Sahara Desert covering south.

Mediterranean climate (north) to steppe and desert climate (central-south)

Area: Africa / 163610 km²
Capital: Tunis
Largest city: Tunis
Coastal status: Yes
Major lakes: Chott el Djerid, Lake Ichkeul
Bordering countries: Algeria, Libya

Natural resources

Phosphate ore, Petroleum, Natural gas, Gypsum, Rock salt, Iron ore, Marble, Olives, Dates, Solar energy, Fishery resources (tuna, squid), Tourism resources, Coral, Herbs, Oasis groundwater

Politics

Government: Presidential republic (2022 constitution)

Economy

Currency: Tunisian Dinar (TND)

GDP (nominal): Approximately 52 billion USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): Approximately 162 billion USD (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Arabic, French, Berber (minority)

Time zone: Central European Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Arab Tunisian, Berber, Black Tuareg/Sudanese, Jewish Tunisian, French residents

Life expectancy

Approximately 76.5 years

Literacy rate

Approximately 81.8%

National sports

Soccer, Athletics, Handball, Volleyball, Basketball, Swimming, Wrestling