Marshalling financing for Tunisia’s sustainable development

Genesis Analytics is working with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to find ways to mobilise additional financing for Tunisia’s sustainable development. The objective is to evaluate existing financing tools and propose actionable recommendations for new tools based on international experiences.

To meet its development goals, Tunisia requires substantial and sustainable funding. This has been highlighted in its Nationally Determined Contribution, which estimates a need of $19.4 billion to implement mitigation and adaptation actions for climate change. Moreover, reliance solely on the public sector for financing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is inadequate.

In Tunisia, a convergence of political, economic and environmental shocks has intensified vulnerabilities, hindering the government’s pursuit of sustainable development. The adverse impacts of climate change, including rising temperatures and dwindling precipitation, threaten agricultural productivity and overall economic stability. Compounded by economic slowdown, high unemployment rates, inflation and soaring public debt, Tunisia faces a formidable task in achieving its SDGs.

Despite the challenging context, Tunisia has reaffirmed its political commitment to SDGs. Tunisia has actively integrated SDGs into its public policies and monitored progress through Voluntary National Reports published in 2019 and 2021. Emphasising national ownership, Tunisia ensures the alignment of SDGs with its regional and national strategies.

Tunisia is also taking strides in reshaping its budgetary system to incorporate SDGs. The reform of Budget Management by Objectives and the implementation of the Integrated National Financing Framework (INFF) demonstrate this commitment. Led by the Ministry of Economy and Planning, with support from the UNDP, the INFF aims to identify, mobilise and allocate resources more efficiently.

Genesis has adopted a comprehensive approach to address Tunisia's unique context, legislative framework and regulatory environment. Ultimately, the goal is to support Tunisia in financing its development goals sustainably, especially amid the current economic crisis. 

By leveraging innovative financing solutions and aligning them with Tunisia's specific needs, the country can navigate its economic challenges while advancing its sustainable development agenda.