Since 2020, Fondation Hirondelle has been implementing the media component of the PACT (Participation Active des Citoyennes et Citoyens Tunisiens) programme, in consortium with the Danish organization NIRAS. The aim of this project is to expand civic space and encourage dialogue between governments and citizens, particularly the most vulnerable, in order to achieve real co-construction of public action in the High Steppes region (governorates of Gafsa, Kairouan, Kasserine, Kef, Sidi Bouzid and Siliana). Phase 2 of the project began in May 2023. Fondation Hirondelle is continuing to support local media as players in good governance and sustainable development on a local scale.
Key Figures 2023
14 media partners
19 media professionals trained
5,500 users on social media
Financial Volume
115,636 CHF
Sources of Funding
• Switzerland (SDC mandate) via NIRAS
OPENING UP PUBLIC SPACE AND ENCOURAGING DIALOGUE
Tunisia’s political transformation since 2011 continues to confront the country with structural difficulties. In response to this crisis, the nation’s President has taken drastic and controversial measures, including the introduction of a new constitution in 2023. On the economic front, the country’s financial situation has deteriorated sharply. Against this tense backdrop, the number of illegal migrants seeking to reach Europe has reached record levels, social protest has grown and human rights abuses have risen sharply.
Faced with this reality, Fondation Hirondelle has supported the creation of a network of 19 journalists, nearly 80% of whom are women, with an average age of between 25 and 35. Trained and coached in local governance issues, this network representing 14 local and regional media, has produced over 270 pieces of journalistic content since 2021, including 232 video reports. This content has covered public policy issues such as the difficulties of accessing local governance structures or the lack of employment opportunities for young people.
Thanks to this training, our journalist has acquired many new journalistic techniques, which we will use in our radio station and our programmes.
Tarek Benhmissi, Director of Radio Sufetula in Sbeïtla
The journalistic contents were broadcast by the network’s media outlets, on their airwaves and online platforms, as well as on a dedicated Facebook page, giving them greater visibility.
The network’s journalists have received ongoing training, particularly in mobile journalism , and elected representatives and local authorities have received training to enable them to speak clearly to the media and organise press conferences.
In 2024, the network of journalists and media partners will be expanded, with a target of 20 to 25 new media including web radios and bloggers. Journalists will be encouraged to focus on issues facing vulnerable communities, and a fact-checking component will be included.