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In an increasingly globalised world, mobility across borders has emerged as a key driver of socio-economic and cultural transformation. However, it also brings forth complex challenges that demand innovative solutions and collaborative approaches. The Perspectives programme implemented by Swisscontact stands as a beacon of this collaborative spirit, fostering opportunities for Tunisian youth while addressing labour market demands in Switzerland. As part of the Perspectives programme, a recent event aimed to showcase Tunisian talent, its entrepreneurial ecosystem and promote the opportunities offered by the programme.
Eduard Gnesa, our Foundation Board Member, gave an inspiring opening speech to an audience of around 120 participants, advocating for bold new circular migration models to address Switzerland’s future demand for a skilled workforce:
Drawing from his experience as a Former Ambassador Extraordinary responsible for international cooperation on migration issues at the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs and former Director of the Federal Office for Migration, Gnesa emphasised the importance of fostering economic and social development in partner countries.
After the opening speech, the project’s financing partners, the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), highlighted the potential of migration cooperation between Switzerland and Tunisia, while the representatives from the Tunisian Government (from the Ministry of Employment and Vocational Training and from the Tunisian Embassy in Bern) reiterated their strong support for the Young Professional Agreement (“Accord Jeunes Professionnels”). Through this agreement, the Perspectives programme allows qualified Tunisians to gain professional experience in Switzerland for a maximum of 18 months. This exchange benefits Swiss companies by addressing skills shortages while enriching their workplaces with diverse talents. Meanwhile, Tunisia gains a more skilled workforce, boosting its economy and fostering innovation. This mutually beneficial dynamic was highlighted by Ahmed Messaoudi, Director General of Placement Abroad at the Tunisian Ministry of Employment and Vocational Training:
Launched as part of the Migration Partnership between Tunisia and Switzerland, the Perspectives programme is an innovative initiative supported by the Swiss Confederation. It embodies the principle of circular migration, aiming to create mutual benefits for both the country of origin and the destination. At the heart of the Perspectives programme lies the "Accord Jeunes Professionnels," which allows young Tunisians to enhance their skills, contribute to Swiss businesses, and prepare for impactful careers upon their return to Tunisia. This exchange benefits Swiss companies by addressing skill shortages while enriching their workplaces with diverse talents.
Two panel discussions provided a space for exchange between different stakeholders from both countries. The first panel focused on sharing Tunisian skills as an asset for the Swiss economy. It brought together an expert on the Swiss economy, representatives of the hotel industry in Tunisia and in Switzerland, representatives of the renewable energy sector and young Tunisian professionals:
With Switzerland facing a projected shortfall of 460,000 workers by 2035, initiatives like Perspectives offer timely solutions. This is particularly significant in sectors such as hospitality, renewable energy, and technology, where the demand for skilled labour is acute. During the discussion, Andreas Banholzer, Deputy Director of the Vaud Chamber of Commerce and Industry, stated:
Eya Chebbi, one of the young professional in the IT industry, expressed their gratitude and highlighted the programme’s impact on their journey:
The Perspectives programme also leverages the expertise of the Tunisian diaspora in Switzerland. Through mentorship, financial investments, and collaborative projects, members of the diaspora play a vital role in supporting local initiatives in Tunisia. These contributions drive the creation of businesses, social projects, and cultural exchanges, further solidifying the programme’s impact.
In the second panel, members of the Tunisian diaspora, the Swiss Tunisian Network, Tunisian start-up founders, representative of Swiss companies in Tunisia, and leaders of projects in Tunisia discussed the potential of Tunisian innovation and its opportunities for the local entrepreneurial ecosystem. The panelists included:
The programme has also catalysed dialogue between public and private institutions, fostering a shared vision of migration as a tool for inclusive and sustainable development. Rafik Hwimli and Adnen Ayed, founders of Tunisian start-ups, shared how diaspora support has been pivotal in scaling their businesses, offering both expertise and financial backing.
The Perspectives programme exemplifies how migration can be harnessed as a force for good, creating opportunities for individuals and addressing systemic challenges in both origin and destination countries. By connecting skills, innovation, and shared aspirations, Switzerland and Tunisia are charting a path toward a more inclusive future. The success of the Perspectives programme is a testament to the enduring partnership between the two countries—a model of how migration, when managed with foresight and cooperation, can become a powerful tool for progress.