An Approach to Tunisian Tourism According to the Political Changes between 2011 and 2016

Abstract

Following the Jasmin revolution in Tunisia in January 2011, the country had difficulty keeping its touristic clients according to different causes. Adding that the history of the Tunisian Tourism shows that “mass tourism” is one of the main characteristic of the touristic product. Today, this kind of tourism is no longer competitive comparing to the new aspect of globalization. In addition, with a revenue, less than 50% during these years, the professionals of the sector have found themselves in a position of weakness in front of foreign tour operators, always forced to lower the prices so as not to lose their tourists. The Tunisian government finds difficulties in order to divert the seaside offer, based on the three formulas (sand, sea, sun), towards a seductive alternative product. Given the decline in the coastal supply, tour operators apply their powers to dismiss the Tunisian market by focusing on arguments related to the low level of the promoted product, and political changes. Given these barriers, hotels faced harsh financial difficulties, high debt levels, inadequate funding and the downgrading of hotels due to deteriorating quality. This paper studies the various causes of tourism degradation in Tunisia and the challenges of the tourism sector due to the political change such as the security outlook, which become uncertain and is facing significant challenges particularly with terrorism and civil unrest.