CJD Talks 2024: Unlocking the Potential of Tunisian Expatriates
The CJD Talks 2024 recently welcomed Walid Bel Hadj Amor, Vice President of ATUGE, for its first podcast on the theme "How to transform Tunisian expatriates into a driving force for investment and exports in Tunisia?" In this insightful intervention, Mr. Bel Hadj Amor presented a precise diagnosis of the challenges facing the Tunisian diaspora, while proposing concrete solutions to strengthen their role in the country's economic development.
An Underutilized Potential
Bel Hadj Amor highlighted that the Tunisian diaspora, comprising nearly 2 million members, represents a diverse mosaic, with three generations of Tunisians living abroad, mainly in Europe. Despite this human wealth, the economic contribution of this diaspora remains largely below its potential, particularly compared to other countries like Morocco or Egypt. "The relationship between Tunisian expatriates (TRE) and their country of origin is overestimated, as is economic patriotism," he stated. Remittances, a key indicator of the diaspora's economic engagement, are declining, marking a shift in the relationship between TRE and Tunisia.
Towards a New Strategy
To reverse this trend, Bel Hadj Amor advocated for a national strategy to mobilize the diaspora, focusing on listening, engaging, and guiding TRE. He emphasized the importance of better communication and structuring initiatives, so that individual solidarity efforts, like those observed during the Covid-19 crisis, can be channeled for a more lasting and significant impact. ATUGE, in collaboration with various associations of Tunisian expatriates, is currently working on developing this strategy. An approach inspired by successful models in other countries, such as creating a "virtual region" dedicated to the diaspora or optimizing foreign currency savings offers, could greatly strengthen ties between the diaspora and Tunisia.
A Call to Action for an Engaged Diaspora
Bel Hadj Amor also highlighted the crucial role the diaspora can play in Tunisia's economic and social development. He stressed the need to create opportunities for TRE to engage not only through financial investments but also by sharing their skills, expertise, and participating in shaping public policies. "Tunisia cannot do without its TRE, and vice versa. It is imperative that the diaspora is an integral part of the solutions and visions for the country's future," he affirmed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Mr. Bel Hadj Amor's intervention calls for collective mobilization around the Tunisian diaspora, with strong engagement from authorities, institutions, and associations, to build a new era of collaboration and shared prosperity between Tunisia and its diaspora.
