Tunisia's Rule of Law Ranking Declines in 2026 Report

TUNIS, TUNISIA — Tunisia's ranking in the World Justice Project's (WJP) Rule of Law Index has declined significantly over the past five years, according to the 2026 report released this year. The country is now positioned at 89th out of 143 countries and jurisdictions, marking a notable decrease in its standing.

The 2026 index highlights a weakening of checks and balances and a deterioration of public liberties in Tunisia. This decline is attributed to various factors, including restrictions on independent institutions and media, as well as a reduction in the effectiveness of judicial processes.

Comparatively, Tunisia's position has worsened by nearly 20% since the 2021 report. In 2021, Tunisia was ranked 74th out of 139 countries and jurisdictions. This shift underscores the challenges the country faces in maintaining and strengthening its democratic institutions and rule of law principles.

The World Justice Project's Rule of Law Index assesses countries based on eight factors: constraints on government powers, absence of corruption, open government, fundamental rights, order and security, regulatory enforcement, civil justice, and criminal justice. Tunisia's decline is most pronounced in the areas of constraints on government powers and fundamental rights.

This downward trend raises concerns about the stability and democratic progress of Tunisia, which has been praised for its democratic transition following the 2011 revolution. The country's struggles with rule of law and governance are part of a broader regional trend, with many countries in the Middle East and North Africa facing similar challenges.

CONTEXT: Tunisia's decline in the Rule of Law Index is significant because it reflects broader issues in governance and democratic consolidation. The country's struggles highlight the fragility of democratic transitions in the region and the need for sustained international support to strengthen institutions and uphold the rule of law.