The Long Road to Digitizing Tunisia's Administration
The path to digitizing Tunisia's administration is a long one. Each ministry must select high-demand services to digitize, while trying to complement other public entities. This is no easy feat. It requires total mobilization and significant financial and human resources.
Pension Application Process to be Digitized
This year, one of the processes to be digitized is the application for a pension from the National Social Security Fund (CNSS). The simplicity of the current procedure depends on the type of pension, but it still requires several trips to the nearest CNSS office. If the social security beneficiary has worked in both the private and public sectors, the process also involves the National Retirement and Social Welfare Fund (CNRPS). For those living in rural areas, digitization is a welcome development, as it will save them both time and money.
Ministry of Communication Technologies to Lead the Project
The project will be led by the Ministry of Communication Technologies, with the support of a $25 million credit from the World Bank. Other social services will also be affected by this approach. The CNRPS will have its own platform, dubbed "SI Pension CNRPS".
A Positive Step Forward, but Financial Challenges Remain
These developments are a positive step forward. However, the financial challenge facing all social security funds remains. The ongoing social amnesty is expected to generate liquidity, but it is far from sufficient. Recent salary increases will also cost more money, particularly for the CNSS, starting from January. Overhauling the system is a necessary step to ensure its sustainability.
