In brief
Tunisia’s Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Nafti announced a renewed commitment to combat migrant smuggling and said the country will guard sovereignty, protect borders, and work with partners to curb irregular migration. The strategy blends security measures with humanitarian support and development work, aiming to reduce root causes such as poverty and unemployment. Tunisia also plans to strengthen ties with the International Organization for Migration for voluntary return and reintegration programs.
Tunisia pledged on 6 November 2026 to step up its fight against migrant smuggling networks, with Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Nafti stating the country will not allow its borders to become a transit or landing platform for irregular migrants and asylum seekers.
Nafti emphasized a comprehensive approach that balances security with humanitarian elements, calling for stronger cooperation among origin, transit and destination states based on shared responsibility.
The minister said Tunisia will safeguard national sovereignty, protect its borders and crack down on smuggling and human‑trafficking networks while respecting migrants’ dignity and rights.
He noted the country is also addressing root causes such as poverty, unemployment and socio‑economic disparities to reduce the push for irregular migration.
In addition to security, Tunisia plans to strengthen coordination with the International Organization for Migration on voluntary return assistance and reintegration, allowing migrants wishing to return home to do so safely and with dignity.
