Tunis, Tunisia - Tunisia has commenced the implementation of the Protocol on Integrated Coastal Zone Management in the Mediterranean (ICZM Protocol), as announced by Mehdi Belhaj, CEO of the 'Agence de Protection et d'Aménagement du Littoral' (APAL). The protocol, ratified by Tunisia at the end of 2022, aims to address the challenges posed by marine erosion and climate change to the country's coastal regions.

According to Agence Tunis Afrique Presse, speaking at an information event in Tunis focused on rationalizing Tunisia's coastal management, Belhaj highlighted the vulnerability of the nation's coastline, especially the 13 coastal governorates, to marine erosion. He pointed out the significant risk this poses to tourism, a key sector in Tunisia's economy that heavily relies on its beaches.

Environment Minister Leila Chikhaoui explained that the ICZM Protocol necessitates the development of a national coastal protection strategy. Tunisia has already prepared such a strategy for 2020, demonstrating its proactive approach to coastal preservation. Chikhaoui emphasized the importance of a comprehensive vision and "intelligent management" within an adaptable ecological context to ensure sustainable use of coastal zones for current and future generations.

Tourism Minister Mohamed Moez also spoke on the importance of the protocol, noting that 80% of Tunisia's tourist units are located along the coast. This underscores the strategic significance of effective coastal management for the tourism sector.

Belhaj, in his conversation with TAP, called for a revision of legal texts governing coastal management, adapting them to the realities of climate change and environmental impacts. He advocated for a new vision and the adoption of a modern coastal zone management model.

Tunisia's coastline is a hub for diverse economic activities and is densely populated, housing commercial ports, fishing ports, marinas, electricity generating stations, phosphate refining units, and seawater desalination plants.

The ICZM Protocol, an international legal instrument signed in Madrid on January 21, 2008, is unique in its focus on integrated coastal zone management. It aims to ensure sustainable development of coastal zones, sustainable use of natural resources, and preservation of coastal ecosystems, geomorphology, and landscapes. The protocol is critical for protecting coastal areas from natural disasters and ensuring coherence between public and private initiatives.