The role of NGOs in climate policies: The case of Tunisia

• Published in: Journal of economic behavior & organization 2024-04, Vol.220, p.388-401
• Main Author: Ben Youssef, Adel
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Climate policy, Tunisia, Global climate dialogue, Policy dynamics; Economics and Finance; Humanities and Social Sciences; Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
• ISSN: 0167-2681; 1879-1751; 0167-2681
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jebo.2024.02.016

In this study, we examine the influential role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in shaping climate policy in Tunisia. Tunisia is a critical front in the global green transition. Our findings highlight how improved working conditions significantly increase NGO participation in climate initiatives, underscoring the value of a supportive operating environment. Growing professionalism within NGOs is particularly influencing strategic development in areas such as the Resilience 2050 and Low Carbon Economy 2050 programs. The interplay between NGOs and government agencies emerges as a transformative factor; exclusion from policymaking processes can lead some NGOs to intensify their climate action, while collaboration with governments and access to international funding generally strengthen NGOs’ commitment to broader climate agendas. We also explore the influence of resource constraints on NGOs’ ability to multitask, and the link between financial stability and political engagement. Our study highlights the importance of fostering robust NGO-government partnerships that balance local insights with global perspectives for effective climate action, and points to the need for such collaborations to support Tunisia's green transition within the broader context of global climate governance.