On November 6, 2023, an "Information Day on the rationalization of the management of the Tunisian coastline through the implementation of the ICZM Protocol" was organized jointly by PAP/RAC and the Tunisian Agency for the Protection and Development of the Coast (APAL) within the framework of the GEF MedProgramme. This day brought together eminent speakers, including three of the most relevant ministers for coastal zone management, namely Ms. Chikhaoui-Mahdaoui, Minister of the Environment, Mr. Belhassine, Minister of Tourism and Ms. Zaafrani-Zenzri, Minister equipment and housing. The audience of more than 150 people included, among others, representatives of numerous ministries, APAL branches at the regional level, several NGOs as well as two deputies.
During her opening speech, the Minister of the Environment stressed that the day was the culmination of significant efforts resulting from a participatory approach which contributed to the development of the National Strategy for Integrated Coastal Zone Management and the ratification of the ICZM protocol. These two major advances will be supplemented by the development of execution and implementation plans with the participation of all actors and stakeholders mobilized and committed to achieving the expected objectives. For his part, the Minister of Tourism recalled that 80% of tourist units are located on the Tunisian coast, and that there is an urgent need to adopt new management methods to adapt to the effects of climate change.
The day then continued with several presentations addressing the steps to follow now that the Protocol had been ratified, and in particular the deposit of the instruments of ratification which will allow its effective entry into force in Tunisian law.
Zeljka Skaricic, Director of PAP/RAC, congratulated Tunisia for the major progress, and recalled that the center would continue as usual to support Tunisia in its efforts to implement the Protocol, as well as in its progress towards a sustainable coastline.
