Tunisia’s Political Landscape a Decade after the Jasmine Revolution

Tunisia is approaching the tenth anniversary of its 2010-2011 Jasmine revolution while facing one of the most challenging periods of its post-independence history. As Tunisia approaches this anniversary, it faces a pandemic that has induced a historic economic crisis with significant social and political ramifications. Economic distress will inevitably fuel discontent, adding to the frustration that many have against political parties and leaders. Nevertheless, most of the dynamics currently characterizing the Tunisian political landscape have little to do with the coronavirus’ impact, as their roots are firmly planted in dynamics that started long before the pandemic began, with the emergence of opposite yet functionally similar forms of populism.