Tunisia has enacted a new law aimed at improving workers’ rights and stabilizing employment conditions, marking what is being described as one of the most significant changes to the country’s employment system in recent years. The law, approved by parliament on May 27, also includes a ban on subcontracting.
Under the new legislation, permanent employment contracts will become the standard for most jobs, according to local reports.
Fixed-term contracts will be permitted only in specific circumstances, such as covering for an absent employee or for seasonal work. Fixed-term contracts that do not meet these conditions will automatically be converted into permanent contracts.
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The law also prohibits labor subcontracting, a practice often criticized for creating unstable job conditions. Workers previously hired through subcontracting firms will now be offered permanent positions with the companies they were working for.
Employees whose temporary contracts were terminated between March and the date the new law comes into effect will be offered either permanent employment or compensation based on their length of service.
The new law also introduces stricter health and safety regulations in the workplace, with increased penalties for non-compliance.
For the first time, remote work will be officially regulated, providing clear guidelines for both employers and employees.
Trade unions have welcomed the reform, calling it a step towards fairer and more stable working conditions in Tunisia, and have urged the government to ensure the new rules are enforced nationwide.
