|
Following independence from France in 1956, President Habib BOURGUIBA established a strict one-party state. He dominated the country for 31 years, repressing Islamic fundamentalism and establishing rights for women unmatched by any other Arab nation. In recent years, Tunisia has taken a moderate, non-aligned stance in its foreign relations. Domestically, it has sought to defuse rising pressure for a more open political society.
|
|
|
Country
|
Surface Area: 163,610 square km
Population: 9,974,722 (July 2004 est.)
Located in: Northern Africa
Capital City: Tunis
Head of State: Zine El Abidine BEN ALI
Prime Minister: Mohamed GHANNOUCHI
Independent since: 20 March 1956 (from France)
Currency: Tunisian dinar (TND)
Flag (image): 
|
|
