Tunisian Publishers Union Announces Boycott of National Book Fair
The Tunisian Publishers Union has announced the suspension of Tunisian publishers' participation in the fifth edition of the National Book Fair, scheduled to take place from January 8 to 18, 2026. This decision comes amidst what the Union describes as "systematic marginalization" by the Ministry of Cultural Affairs against publishers and their institutions.
Background
The decision was made during the Tunisian Publishers Union's general assembly, which was held on Saturday, October 25, and resulted in a statement. The publishers expressed their "concern over the deteriorating situation of the book sector," according to the statement, and called on the Presidency of the Republic to "urgently intervene to save the book and publishing sector."
Crisis in the Publishing Sector
The Union stated that the Tunisian publishing industry is experiencing an "unprecedented crisis" due to the lack of public support and the decline of policies aimed at promoting books. Additionally, the Union has been excluded from decision-making bodies and national committees, which has further exacerbated the situation. The Union also denounced its "eviction" from the organization of the Tunisian National Book Fair, noting that "this national cultural event was launched by the Union in 2018 and organized in partnership with the Ministry of Cultural Affairs for four editions."
Exclusion from Cultural Commissions
The Union also condemned its "exclusion" from several cultural commissions and consultations, including the national purchasing commission and the preparatory committees for Tunisia's participation as a guest of honor in international book fairs. The Union's boycott of the National Book Fair is a significant development in the ongoing tensions between the publishing industry and the Ministry of Cultural Affairs.
