#Zaama, do we need to privatize public institutions? 

Tunisia is falling back in the global market following its “CAA1” classification by Moody's Investors Service hitting Tunisia’s credibility with international funders. This coincides with this year’s last quarter, when the finance law is usually prepared. With the absence of the Tunisian Parliament and the presence of an overwhelming need to balance the state’s budget and cover its deficiencies, the question of the privatization of certain state sectors as means of economic reform is back today at the forefront of public discourse.

The debate about “privatization” is not a new one in Tunisia since the state actually started selling some of its shares in certain economic sectors since the 1980s. This was presented by the Ben Ali regime as the best solution to revive the state treasury and to improve services. Following the 2010-2011 Revolution, consecutive governments as well as economic analysts repeatedly discussed the subject of privatization, but were firmly opposed by the Tunisian Labor Union (UGTT).

With different opinions revolving around the subject of privatization in Tunisia, the Munathara Initiative is proposing the following motion:  #Zaama, do we need to privatize public institutions?