The Tunisian Association of Democratic Women (ATFD) has called for the immediate withdrawal of draft law No. 104/2025, which seeks to introduce specific provisions on voluntary early retirement for women working in the private sector.
In parallel, the organization is urging the launch of a serious national debate bringing together social partners, civil society and state institutions, with a view to reforming the pension and social security system on fair, inclusive and non-discriminatory foundations.
A call for a national debate on pension reform
In a statement published on Monday, ATFD voiced its opposition to the draft, arguing that the proposed approach requires a broader discussion on the future of Tunisia’s pension system and social protection framework.
The association stressed the need for a comprehensive approach that addresses structural imbalances, rather than targeted measures that could, in its view, deepen certain inequalities.
ATFD warns of a heightened risk of discrimination
According to the statement, ATFD argues that what the initiators present as a measure aimed at “equalizing” women’s access to early retirement regardless of their circumstances “in fact conceals a deeper form of discrimination.”
The association believes the draft could result in women being targeted rather than men to end their careers earlier, effectively pushing them out of the economic cycle. ATFD also warns that this trajectory could lead to situations where women receive a pension amounting to half of their monthly salary, as noted in the statement.
MP Malek Kammoun: “We are open to constructive criticism”
Asked about the position of Parliament and the MPs behind the initiative, MP Malek Kammoun, one of the draft’s sponsors, told Tunisie Numérique that, in principle, all views are “welcome”, as part of positive engagement and efforts to improve the text.
“Expressing an opinion is welcome… and ATFD’s reaction, as long as it is framed as constructive criticism, we are open to it,” he said, adding that this openness also applies to reactions from civil society, social media and public opinion.
“Parliament’s doors are open” and an invitation to hearings
The MP also stressed that any draft law remains, in his view, open to additions and adjustments. He explained that hearings are scheduled with the various stakeholders concerned, in order to broaden the discussion around such initiatives.
Malek Kammoun further stated that “the doors of the Assembly of the Representatives of the People are open to everyone,” noting that if ATFD wishes to present its position on the draft, it can contact the Health Committee and request to attend a hearing session. He added that he does not believe any party would be barred from participating and expressing its views.
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