Press Relations in Tunisia: A Complete Guide to Successful Local Communication

Introduction
Do you want to increase your visibility in Tunisia and effectively reach the local audience? This strategic guide will help you understand the Tunisian media landscape, its specific features, and best practices to succeed in public relations—even remotely.

1. Tunisia: A Strategic Crossroads Between Africa and Europe

Located in North Africa, Tunisia shares borders with Algeria to the west and Libya to the east, and is separated from Europe by the Mediterranean Sea.

• Capital: Tunis — the main political, economic, and media hub.

The 2011 revolution (Arab Spring) profoundly transformed the media landscape, paving the way for greater freedom of expression.

2. Press Freedom in Tunisia: Progress and Challenges

A Historic Turning Point
Before 2011, the media were largely state-controlled. After the revolution, the 2014 Constitution guaranteed freedom of information and publication without prior censorship.

Key Defenders of Journalists

• National Union of Tunisian Journalists (SNJT)

• Tunisian Association of Newspaper Directors

• Union of Independent and Partisan Press

Persistent Challenges

• Political pressure on some newsrooms

• Economic fragility of media outlets

• Frequent closures due to lack of funding

3. Major Tunisian Media to Know

Print Media

• Al Chourouk (Arabic, very popular)

• Assabah

• La Presse de Tunisie (French-language)

• Al Bayane, Al Ilène

Radio

• Mosaique FM: the country’s leading private radio

• Shems FM, Jawhara FM, IFM, Radio Tunis Nationale

Television

• Al Wataniya 1 and Al Wataniya 2 (public channels)

• Nessma TV, El Hiwar Ettounsi, Hannibal TV

Did you know?
99% of Tunisian households own a television, and 88% watch it daily.

4. Specific Features of PR in Tunisia

• Dynamic yet fragile media landscape: many outlets close due to lack of resources.

• Strong politicization: some outlets are linked to political figures, shaping their editorial lines.

• TV is the most powerful medium for reaching both urban and rural audiences.

5. Tips for Effectively Distributing Your Press Release in Tunisia

• Prioritize television to maximize visibility.

• Target a mix of channels (TV, radio, print, digital) depending on your audience.

• Build direct relationships with journalists and editorial teams.

• Adapt your message to language and medium (Arabic, French).

• Monitor political news to choose the right moment for distribution.

Conclusion
Tunisia offers a rapidly evolving media environment, with strong potential for brands and organizations aiming to build their image. By choosing the right channels—especially television—and understanding the local context, you can optimize your PR campaigns and achieve a significant impact.