Programme Officer

Geography and Climate: Tunisia, the smallest country of the North African coast, with a population of slightly over 10 millions of which about 60% live in urban locations, has one of the highest living standards on the continent. Tunis is the capital of the country and the largest city (population of approximately two million in and outside the city proper). As a small country, all destinations within Tunisia can be reached in a day drive. Tunisia borders with Libya (Southeast) and with Algeria (West). Tunisia has a Mediterranean climate. Along the coast of northern Tunisia, summers are hot and dry, and winters are warm and rainy. In the northwest, there is occasional snowfall in the mountains. In southern Tunisia, it is hotter and drier. Southern Tunisia, where the Sahara begins, is semi-desert. In some parts, there are oases with giant palm trees and small market gardens. Religion: About 99 percent of the population is Muslim, especially Sunni Islam, as it is the major and state religion. Tunisia has also a small Christian population, composed of Roman Catholics, members of the Greek Orthodox Church, and French and English Protestants. In addition, there is a small population of Sephardic Jews. Economy: The country does not have vast stocks of hydrocarbons like its neighbours Algeria and Libya but has prospered under long-standing government policies to develop manufacturing, tourism, and agriculture. At the same time, social programs limit population growth, provide a high standard of education, and ensure a relatively decent standard of living for all. The largest percentage of Tunisia’s exports are agricultural and mining products, which generate over 11 billion dollars a year. Tunisia's biggest export partners are France and Italy. Tunisia is a member of the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development (AFESD), the Arab Monetary Fund, and the Union of the Arab Maghreb (UMA). Public transportation: In addition to the private taxi services, the state runs a reliable and cost-effective public transport system. Safety and security: The crime rate is low, but there have been cases of theft. Walking alone during daylight hours is permitted, but you may want to be more careful at night. Tunisia is still undergoing a critical period of democratic and social transition. The heated political debate has, at times, developed into a localized confrontation among ideological opponents. Although these tensions are unrelated to foreigners, it is nevertheless important to remain updated on the political situation. Therefore, security advice is sent systematically by UNDSS and UNHCR security staff. Since 2015, there have not been terrorist attacks in Tunisia. You can check full entitlements at the duty station at https://app.unv.org/calculator. The complete UN Volunteer Conditions of Service is available at https://explore.unv.org/cos.