Summary:

On 20 March 2026, President Kais Saied held a phone call with French President Emmanuel Macron, during which he called for a recalibration of Tunisia’s relationship with the European Union. 

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During the exchange, Saied highlighted that the current partnership framework is “unfair” noting his view that it does not adequately reflect Tunisia’s sovereignty and economic interests. President Saied stressed the need to revise existing agreements and pursue the recovery of misappropriated funds held abroad. 

He also addressed the migration issue, advocating for the voluntary return of irregular migrants while rejecting Tunisia’s role in managing external migration pressures driven by foreign partners. In addition, Saied framed his position within a broader critique of global inequalities, calling for reforms to the international system and reiterating Tunisia’s stance on justice-related issues, including support for the Palestinian cause. 

Outlook: 

President Saied’s call for revising Tunisia’s partnership with the EU is likely aimed at easing mounting domestic pressure by projecting a firm and assertive diplomatic stance at a time of economic, political, and social strain.  

As domestic critics continue to raise concerns over Tunisia’s migration agreements with the EU, this discourse may resonate with Tunisians who have come to view migration as a decisive economic and security issue. However, the scope for tangible progress in this area may remain limited, given Tunisia’s reliance on external financial and political support, which will constrain the extent of any near-term renegotiation outcomes. 

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