Tunisia is commemorating the 70th anniversary of its independence from France on March 20, 2026. The date marks the signing of the Franco-Tunisian protocol in Paris in 1956, which ended the French protectorate established in 1881.
The path to sovereignty was driven by the Tunisian national movement, notably the Neo Destour party led by Habib Bourguiba, who became the country's first president. The independence agreement granted Tunisia control over its foreign affairs, defense, and internal security.
Since 1956, March 20 has been celebrated annually as Independence Day, a national holiday. The anniversary is typically marked by official ceremonies, speeches, and public events reflecting on the nation's history and future.
This milestone anniversary arrives as Tunisia continues to navigate its political and economic landscape over a decade after the 2011 revolution that initiated its democratic transition.
