Tunisia has long been celebrated for its robust training systems across various sectors, including medicine and education.
However, in recent years, a troubling trend has emerged: a significant outflow of professionals seeking opportunities abroad, primarily driven by the country’s ongoing social and political challenges. This trend, which has been accelerating, poses serious concerns for Tunisia’s future.
Most Tunisians who leave the country have little intention of returning, except perhaps for holidays or retirement. These highly skilled expatriates, whose education and training have been heavily subsidized by Tunisia, end up contributing their talents to foreign companies that have invested nothing in their development.
For Tunisia, this represents a significant loss—both in terms of the financial investment made in these individuals and the critical skills that are leaving the country. These professionals could have played a vital role in helping Tunisia navigate its current socio-economic challenges. The urgent need to address this issue is clear: Tunisia must find ways to retain its young, talented professionals.
Significant increase in recruitment of Tunisians abroad
According to recent data from the Tunisian Agency for Technical Cooperation (ATCT), 732 Tunisian professionals were recruited abroad as part of technical cooperation in the first quarter of 2024 alone. The majority of these were paramedical professionals, with 291 recruited between January and March.
As of March 31, 2024, the total number of Tunisian professionals working abroad had reached 25,570. The education sector leads the way with 9,367 professionals recruited, followed by the health sector with 8,034.
Arab Countries: The leading destination for Tunisian talent
The majority of these professionals are heading to Arab countries, which have recruited 14,527 Tunisians this year. Europe follows with 6,900 recruits, and North America with 3,033.
These professionals, whose expertise is recognized globally, are making significant contributions in fields ranging from aerospace to robotics. Unfortunately, Tunisia lacks the resources to fully develop and capitalize on these talents, leaving them vulnerable to being poached by wealthier nations.
Skills Migration: A global issue
The migration of skilled workers is not unique to Tunisia; it is a global phenomenon.
Even developed countries like France are seeing their professionals leave for opportunities in America, Japan, and Australia. Similarly, Germany and Canada are major destinations for skilled immigrants. This trend of “brain drain” affects both developed and developing nations alike.
