ABSTRACT

This chapter attempts to explore the various participatory mechanisms developed in the Tunisian constitution-making process, as well as the tools used by the drafters to translate citizens' contributions into the constitutional document. It provides a tentative assessment of some constitutional provisions that have effectively been influenced by and modified according to citizens' recommendations. During two days, the National Constituent Assembly's (NCA's) constituent commissions opened their doors to civil society representatives, who could participate in the debate and directly interact with the drafters on the various constitutional issues discussed within each commission. From the outset, the NCA Bureau expressed little support for the initiative, not really convinced of its potentiality for success. While broadening these events might not have been a realistic option, communicating on a more regular basis around the NCA's daily work could have helped to keep citizens informed and interested in the constitution-drafting process.