What came to be known as the Arab Spring began in Tunisia three years ago with the revolt of the population against an authoritarian regime. The Tunisian National Assembly has now completed its work on a new constitution for the country and will put the entire basic law to vote. The constitution has crowned the joint efforts of politicians and civil society with success. A tough struggle between the government and opposition forces preceded the work involved. The controversial points were the role of Islam and the issue of equality of the sexes.
"It is above all the secular alignment of the new constitution, the guaranteeing of fundamental freedoms and the anchoring given to the equality of man and woman that encourage optimism for future development in Tunisia. The important point now is for the government to call free elections soon, with the involvement of all political stakeholders. Austria, together with the entire EU, will continue to provide support for Tunisia on its path of political transition", the Minister said.