Employment Policy Convention, 1964 (No. 122) - Tunisia (RATIFICATION: 1966)

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The Committee notes the information provided by the Government in its report received on 2 October 2018 and in its report of 23 March 2022.

Articles 1 and 3 of the Convention. Implementation of an active employment policy.Noting the absence of information in this regard, the Committee reiterates its request to the Government to provide information on the impact of employment policies, including updated quantitative information on growth and economic development, living standards, unemployment and underemployment. The Committee also reiterates its request to the Government to provide detailed information on the consultations held with the social partners on the subjects covered by the Convention. The Committee further requests the Government to provide information on the work under way to develop the national employment strategy, in cooperation with the ILO.

Workers vulnerable to decent work deficits. The Committee notes that, in the context of the implementation of the Decent Work Country Programme (DWCP) 2017–22, a number of initiatives and projects for the employment of women and young people have recently been implemented in Tunisia, including the Decent Work for Young People and Women project (EDJEF) and the Addressing Labour Market Challenges for Equal Opportunities for Women in Tunisia project (ETOFE). The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the impact of the abovementioned project on the employment of women and young people. The Committee further reiterates its request to the Government to provide information on the results achieved with regard to redressing the balance in terms of development and employment between the regions. The Committee further reiterates its request for information on the measures taken or envisaged for the employment of older workers, rural workers and workers in the informal economy.

Compilation and use of employment data.In the absence of information in this regard, the Committee once again reiterates its request to the Government to indicate the manner in which labour market data are compiled and then used to decide on and review employment policy measures.

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Articles 1 and 3 of the Convention. Implementation of an active employment policy. In its report, the Government refers to the establishment of four new programmes to promote employment, namely the “employability improvement cheque”, the “employment support cheque”, the Support Programme for Promoters of Small Enterprises and the Partnership Programme with the Regions. The Committee notes that the employability improvement cheque is intended to facilitate the integration of jobseekers into working life by providing them with qualifications and practical skills, while the employment support cheque is designed to encourage private sector enterprises to recruit first-time jobseekers. The Support Programme for Promoters of Small Enterprises is intended to promote the creation of small enterprises, and the Partnership Programme with the Regions for employment promotion is designed to facilitate the integration of various categories of jobseekers into active life through support for local and regional initiatives that are of particular importance for job creation and the establishment of new enterprises. However, there is no indication in the Government’s report of the number of beneficiaries or the results achieved by its employment policy programmes. The Committee notes the persistent difficulties in the Tunisian labour market, the high number of persons who are still seeking employment (re-registered with the Tunisian Employment Agency – ANETI) and the still limited capacity to absorb labour (under 10 per cent of placements in 2014). The Committee also notes that, in the framework of the social contract concluded by the Government, the Tunisian Federation of Industry, Commerce and Handicrafts (UTICA) and the General Federation of Tunisian Workers (UGTT) in January 2013, the social partners agreed on several matters relating to employment and vocational training policies, including the overall reform of the education system, with a view to ensuring a better matching with the needs of the economy, the establishment of a national system of analysis and information on the training of human resources and the reform of institutions to support and accompany jobseekers. The social contract also envisages the institutionalization of social dialogue through the National Social Dialogue Council. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the results achieved through the programmes implemented in the field of employment policy, and on the difficulties encountered in the achievement of their objectives, including updated quantitative information on the trends and results of the measures adopted to stimulate growth and economic development, raise living standards, meet labour force needs and resolve the problem of unemployment and underemployment, as required by the Convention. The Committee also requests the Government to provide specific information on the consultations held with the representatives of the social partners on the matters covered by the Convention. The Government is further requested to provide information on the consultations held with the most vulnerable categories of the population, and particularly with the representatives of workers in rural areas and the informal economy, with a view to securing their cooperation in the formulation and application of employment policy programmes and measures.

Labour market policies. Specific categories of workers. The Government reports the establishment of partnerships with the regions with a view to facilitating the integration of various categories of jobseekers and to supporting the creation of a new generation of small and micro-enterprises. A solidarity enterprise project has been launched with a view to encouraging young people to create their own projects in poor areas. An economic development project and a regional plan of action for the creation of decent jobs, known as “DEPART”, are being implemented in Gafsa, Kef and Ariana with the objective of creating better employment prospects for both young qualified and unskilled persons. The Committee hopes that the Government will soon be in a position to provide information on the results achieved, in collaboration with the social partners at the regional and local levels, in the creation of jobs to make up for the differences in employment levels between the regions. The Committee also hopes that further measures will be taken rapidly to meet the needs of other specific categories of workers, such as women, older workers, rural workers and workers in the informal economy.

Compilation and use of employment data. The Committee once again requests the Government to indicate the manner in which the data compiled have been used to decide upon and review employment policy measures.

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The Committee notes with regret that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments.

Repetition

Implementation of an active employment policy. In reply to the 2011 observation, the Committee notes the statement forwarded by the Government in June 2012. The Government indicates that the problem of unemployment is one of the principal causes of the Revolution of 14 January 2011. It adds that unemployment is a major challenge for the country: unemployment was in excess of 18 per cent of the population at the end of 2011 (13 per cent in 2010) and represents the essential cause of poverty. Youth employment is one of the major challenges for the Government, particularly in relation to the employment of those completing higher education, who number 80,000 a year. The unemployment rate among those completing higher education is 30 per cent. In its previous comments, the Committee emphasized the importance of being able to examine information on the manner in which the main elements of economic policy contribute, “within the framework of a coordinated economic and social policy” (Article 2 of the Convention), to achieving the objectives of full, productive and freely chosen employment. The Committee invites the Government to provide information in its next report on the results achieved and the difficulties encountered in the achievement of the employment policy objectives set out in the Government’s new programmes, including updated quantitative information on the trends and results of the measures established to stimulate growth and economic development, raise living standards, meet labour force needs and resolve the problem of unemployment and underemployment (Article 1(1)).

Compilation and use of employment data. The Committee notes the indications made by the National Institute of Statistics: the number of unemployed aged 15 and over reached 738,400 in December 2011 (or an increase of over 50 per cent in relation to the number for 2010). The Government explains this increase by the substantial decrease in investment and the loss of jobs in agriculture, tourism, industry and services. In 2011, the unemployment rate was much higher for women, reaching 28.2 per cent, compared with 15.4 per cent for men. The Committee invites the Government to indicate the manner in which the data compiled have been used to promote long-term employment among the most vulnerable categories of workers, such as women, youth, older workers, rural workers and workers in the informal economy.

Labour market policies to promote balanced and integrated regional development. The Government indicates that the problem of unemployment worsened in the west (26.9 per cent) and the south-west (29.5 per cent). In the north, the rate varies between 14.5 and 22.3 per cent. In governorates without economic fabric, unemployment reaches 40 per cent. The Committee once again invites the Government to provide information on the results achieved, in collaboration with the social partners at the regional and local levels in terms of job creation with a view to overcoming the backlog in employment between regions.

Promotion of small and micro-enterprises. In its previous comments, the Committee expressed the desire to examine the measures adopted “in order to create an environment conducive to the growth and development of small and medium-sized enterprises” (see Paragraph 5 of the Job Creation in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Recommendation, 1998 (No. 189)). The Committee understands that one of the principal objectives of the employment programme of the Provisional Government is the development of entrepreneurship and the creation of micro-enterprises, as well as support and follow-up at all the stages of enterprise development. The Committee invites the Government to provide detailed information in its next report on the results achieved through these initiatives.

Article 3 of the Convention. Participation of the social partners in the formulation and application of policies. With reference to its concluding remarks in the 2010 General Survey concerning employment instruments, the Committee once again emphasizes that social dialogue, which is already essential in periods of economic stability, becomes even more important in times of crisis (paragraph 794 of the 2010 General Survey). The Committee emphasizes the importance of giving full effect to Article 3 of the Convention, particularly in the new constitutional context and against the background of persistent unemployment. The Committee hopes that the next report will contain precise information on the consultations held with the representatives of the social partners on the subjects covered by the Convention. It also requests the Government to provide information on the consultations held with the most vulnerable categories of the population, and particularly with representatives of workers in rural areas and in the informal economy, with a view to securing their collaboration in the formulation and implementation of employment policy programmes and measures.

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Implementation of an active employment policy. In reply to the 2011 observation, the Committee notes the statement forwarded by the Government in June 2012. The Government indicates that the problem of unemployment is one of the principal causes of the Revolution of 14 January 2011. It adds that unemployment is a major challenge for the country: unemployment was in excess of 18 per cent of the population at the end of 2011 (13 per cent in 2010) and represents the essential cause of poverty. Youth employment is one of the major challenges for the Government, particularly in relation to the employment of those completing higher education, who number 80,000 a year. The unemployment rate among those completing higher education is 30 per cent. In its previous comments, the Committee emphasized the importance of being able to examine information on the manner in which the main elements of economic policy contribute, “within the framework of a coordinated economic and social policy” (Article 2 of the Convention), to achieving the objectives of full, productive and freely chosen employment. The Committee invites the Government to provide information in its next report on the results achieved and the difficulties encountered in the achievement of the employment policy objectives set out in the Government’s new programmes, including updated quantitative information on the trends and results of the measures established to stimulate growth and economic development, raise living standards, meet labour force needs and resolve the problem of unemployment and underemployment (Article 1(1)).

Compilation and use of employment data. The Committee notes the indications made by the National Institute of Statistics: the number of unemployed aged 15 and over reached 738,400 in December 2011 (or an increase of over 50 per cent in relation to the number for 2010). The Government explains this increase by the substantial decrease in investment and the loss of jobs in agriculture, tourism, industry and services. In 2011, the unemployment rate was much higher for women, reaching 28.2 per cent, compared with 15.4 per cent for men. The Committee invites the Government to indicate the manner in which the data compiled have been used to promote long-term employment among the most vulnerable categories of workers, such as women, youth, older workers, rural workers and workers in the informal economy.

Labour market policies to promote balanced and integrated regional development. The Government indicates that the problem of unemployment worsened in the west (26.9 per cent) and the south-west (29.5 per cent). In the north, the rate varies between 14.5 and 22.3 per cent. In governorates without economic fabric, unemployment reaches 40 per cent. The Committee once again invites the Government to provide information on the results achieved, in collaboration with the social partners at the regional and local levels in terms of job creation with a view to overcoming the backlog in employment between regions.

Promotion of small and micro-enterprises. In its previous comments, the Committee expressed the desire to examine the measures adopted “in order to create an environment conducive to the growth and development of small and medium-sized enterprises” (see Paragraph 5 of the Job Creation in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Recommendation, 1998 (No. 189)). The Committee understands that one of the principal objectives of the employment programme of the Provisional Government is the development of entrepreneurship and the creation of micro-enterprises, as well as support and follow-up at all the stages of enterprise development. The Committee invites the Government to provide detailed information in its next report on the results achieved through these initiatives.

Article 3 of the Convention. Participation of the social partners in the formulation and application of policies. With reference to its concluding remarks in the 2010 General Survey concerning employment instruments, the Committee once again emphasizes that social dialogue, which is already essential in periods of economic stability, becomes even more important in times of crisis (paragraph 794 of the 2010 General Survey). The Committee emphasizes the importance of giving full effect to Article 3 of the Convention, particularly in the new constitutional context and against the background of persistent unemployment. The Committee hopes that the next report will contain precise information on the consultations held with the representatives of the social partners on the subjects covered by the Convention. It also requests the Government to provide information on the consultations held with the most vulnerable categories of the population, and particularly with representatives of workers in rural areas and in the informal economy, with a view to securing their collaboration in the formulation and implementation of employment policy programmes and measures.

[The Government is asked to reply in detail to the present comments in 2014.].

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Implementation of an active employment policy. The Committee notes the brief report received in May 2011 containing information relating to its previous comments. The Committee notes the provisional Government’s employment programme, established by the Ministry of Vocational Training and Employment. The programme has four main components: the creation of new paid jobs in all sectors; entrepreneurial development and the creation of micro enterprises; support for struggling enterprises and the preservation of existing jobs; and active support for jobseekers and enhancing their employability. In its previous comments the Committee underlined the importance of being able to examine information on the manner in which the main areas of economic policy contribute “within the framework of a coordinated economic and social policy” (Article 2 of the Convention) to achieving the objectives of full, productive and freely chosen employment. The Committee requests the Government to provide information in its next report on the results achieved and the difficulties encountered in attaining the employment policy objectives set out in the Government’s new programmes, including updated quantitative information on the trends and results of the measures established to stimulate growth and economic development, raise living standards, respond to labour force needs and resolve the problem of unemployment and underemployment (Article 1(1)).

Labour market policies to promote balanced and integrated regional development. The Government indicates that the Ministry of Vocational Training and Employment has adopted a local approach toward the creation of jobs involving all regional and local players concerned with employment. This local approach has been gradually stepped up. The Government also indicates that the dialogue with the social partners is ensured on an annual basis in the context of the Higher Council for the Promotion of Human Resources. The Committee requests the Government to provide detailed information in its next report on the results achieved, in collaboration with the social partners at the regional and local levels, in terms of job creation through the various programmes established, particularly to make up the backlog in relation to employment creation between the regions.

Promotion of small and micro-enterprises. In its previous comments the Committee expressed the desire to examine the measures adopted “in order to create an environment conducive to the growth and development of small and medium-sized enterprises” (see Paragraph 5 of the Job Creation in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Recommendation, 1998 (No. 189)). The Committee understands that one of the main components of the provisional Government’s employment programme is the development of entrepreneurship and the creation of micro-enterprises and also support and monitoring at all stages of the business development. The support programme for promoters will go ahead throughout the first two years of the project. The Committee invite the Government to include detailed information in its next report on the results achieved as result of these initiatives.

Collection and use of employment data. The Committee invites the Government to provide information in its next report on the progress achieved in the coordination of the various labour market information systems and information on the manner in which the data compiled have been used to decide on and keep under review employment policy measures. It hopes that the studies undertaken with international assistance will allow new measures to be defined to promote employment among the most vulnerable categories of workers, such as women, young persons, older workers, rural workers and workers in the informal economy.

Article 3. Participation of the social partners in the formulation and application of policies. The Committee once again emphasizes the importance of giving full effect to Article 3 of the Convention, particularly in a new constitutional context and one of persistent unemployment. It hopes that the next report will contain precise information on the consultations held with the representatives of the social partners on the subjects covered by the Convention. It also requests the Government to provide information on the consultations held with the most vulnerable categories of the population, and particularly with representatives of workers in rural areas and in the informal economy, with a view to securing their cooperation in formulating and implementing employment policy programmes and measures.

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The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

1. Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. Labour market trends and active employment policy. The Committee notes the information provided by the Government in October 2008 in reply to its 2007 direct request. The Government notes in its report a rise in the women’s participation rate, which reached 26.6 per cent in 2005, a fall in the activity rate of illiterate women and a rise in the activity rate of women with higher education. In 2005, unemployment affected 328,800 men and 157,000 women. The Committee notes the objectives established in the XIth Economic Development Plan (2007–11), namely the achievement of an annual growth rate of 6.1 per cent, the creation of 925,000 new jobs and the reduction of the unemployment rate to 11.3 per cent. In its previous comments, the Committee expressed interest in examining information on the manner in which the main areas of economic policy contribute “within the framework of a coordinated economic and social policy” (Article 2) to the achievement of the objectives of full, productive and freely chosen employment. The Committee invites the Government to provide information in its next report on the results achieved and the difficulties encountered in attaining the employment policy objectives set out in the XIth Plan, including updated quantitative information on the trends and results of the programmes established to stimulate growth and economic development, raise living standards, respond to labour force needs and resolve the problem of unemployment and underemployment (Article 1(1)).

2. Employment market policies to promote balanced and integrated regional development. The Government indicates that it has adopted an approach under which employment is a collective responsibility requiring the commitment of the various parties concerned at the regional and local levels. The Government also decided to establish an additional programme in 2007 for 21 regions targeting 7,000 jobseekers. This approach gave rise to regional plans to promote employment and the creation of enterprises. The Committee notes the persistence of an important gap in the numbers of enterprises created by region. In the North-East, the proportion of enterprises created is reported as being higher than in other regions. The Committee invites the Government to report the results achieved, in collaboration with the social partners at the regional and local levels, in terms of job creation through the various programmes established, particularly to make up the backlog in relation to employment creation between the regions.

3. Promotion of small and micro-enterprises. The Government indicates that it has adopted two promotional measures, one based on the coverage by the State for one year of 50 per cent of the gross salary for the recruitment of university graduates, and the other consisting of the coverage by the State of employers’ contributions to the social security scheme. In this respect, the Committee requests the Government to provide information in its next report on the results achieved through the initiatives decided upon in the context of these measures. It also hopes that the next report will contain additional information on the measures adopted “in order to create an environment conducive to the growth and development of small and medium-sized enterprises” (see Paragraph 5 of the Job Creation in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Recommendation, 1998 (No. 189)).

4. Collection and use of employment data. The Committee previously requested indications on the measures adopted to coordinate the various labour market information systems. In its reply, the Government indicates that the National Institute of Statistics has proposed coordination mechanisms between the National Employment Observatory, the National Employment and Self Employment Agency and the National Institute of Statistics. It further notes that a study has been proposed by the World Bank for the establishment of an effective and not duplicative labour market information system. The Committee invites the Government to provide information in its next report on the progress achieved in the coordination of the various labour market information systems and indications on the manner in which the data compiled have been used to decide on and keep under review the employment policy measures. It hopes that the studies undertaken with international assistance will permit to define new measures to promote employment among the most vulnerable categories, such as women, young persons, older workers, rural workers and workers in the informal economy.

5. Article 3. Participation of the social partners in the formulation and application of policies. The Government recalls in its report that a Higher Council for Human Resources Development has been established since 2001, bringing together the representatives of the Government and the social partners. The Committee once again emphasizes the importance of giving full effect to Article 3 of the Convention, particularly in a context of persistent unemployment. It hopes that the next report will contain precise information on the consultations held with the representatives of the social partners on the subjects covered by the Convention. It also requests the Government to provide information on the consultations held with the most vulnerable categories of the population, and particularly with representatives of workers in rural areas and in the informal economy, with a view to securing their cooperation in formulating and giving effect to employment policy programmes and measures.

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1. Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. Labour market trends and active employment policy. The Committee notes the information provided by the Government in October 2008 in reply to its 2007 direct request. The Government notes in its report a rise in the women’s participation rate, which reached 26.6 per cent in 2005, a fall in the activity rate of illiterate women and a rise in the activity rate of women with higher education. In 2005, unemployment affected 328,800 men and 157,000 women. The Committee notes the objectives established in the XIth Economic Development Plan (2007–11), namely the achievement of an annual growth rate of 6.1 per cent, the creation of 925,000 new jobs and the reduction of the unemployment rate to 11.3 per cent. In its previous comments, the Committee expressed interest in examining information on the manner in which the main areas of economic policy contribute “within the framework of a coordinated economic and social policy” (Article 2) to the achievement of the objectives of full, productive and freely chosen employment. The Committee invites the Government to provide information in its next report on the results achieved and the difficulties encountered in attaining the employment policy objectives set out in the XIth Plan, including updated quantitative information on the trends and results of the programmes established to stimulate growth and economic development, raise living standards, respond to labour force needs and resolve the problem of unemployment and underemployment (Article 1, paragraph 1).

2. Employment market policies to promote balanced and integrated regional development. The Government indicates that it has adopted an approach under which employment is a collective responsibility requiring the commitment of the various parties concerned at the regional and local levels. The Government also decided to establish an additional programme in 2007 for 21 regions targeting 7,000 jobseekers. This approach gave rise to regional plans to promote employment and the creation of enterprises. The Committee notes the persistence of an important gap in the numbers of enterprises created by region. In the North-East, the proportion of enterprises created is reported as being higher than in other regions. The Committee invites the Government to report the results achieved, in collaboration with the social partners at the regional and local levels, in terms of job creation through the various programmes established, particularly to make up the backlog in relation to employment creation between the regions.

3. Promotion of small and micro-enterprises. The Government indicates that it has adopted two promotional measures, one based on the coverage by the State for one year of 50 per cent of the gross salary for the recruitment of university graduates, and the other consisting of the coverage by the State of employers’ contributions to the social security scheme. In this respect, the Committee requests the Government to provide information in its next report on the results achieved through the initiatives decided upon in the context of these measures. It also hopes that the next report will contain additional information on the measures adopted “in order to create an environment conducive to the growth and development of small and medium-sized enterprises” (see Paragraph 5 of the Job Creation in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Recommendation, 1998 (No. 189)).

4. Collection and use of employment data. The Committee previously requested indications on the measures adopted to coordinate the various labour market information systems. In its reply, the Government indicates that the National Institute of Statistics has proposed coordination mechanisms between the National Employment Observatory, the National Employment and Self‑Employment Agency and the National Institute of Statistics. It further notes that a study has been proposed by the World Bank for the establishment of an effective and not duplicative labour market information system. The Committee invites the Government to provide information in its next report on the progress achieved in the coordination of the various labour market information systems and indications on the manner in which the data compiled have been used to decide on and keep under review the employment policy measures. It hopes that the studies undertaken with international assistance will permit to define new measures to promote employment among the most vulnerable categories, such as women, young persons, older workers, rural workers and workers in the informal economy.

5. Article 3. Participation of the social partners in the formulation and application of policies. The Government recalls in its report that a Higher Council for Human Resources Development has been established since 2001, bringing together the representatives of the Government and the social partners. The Committee once again emphasizes the importance of giving full effect to Article 3 of the Convention, particularly in a context of persistent unemployment. It hopes that the next report will contain precise information on the consultations held with the representatives of the social partners on the subjects covered by the Convention. It also requests the Government to provide information on the consultations held with the most vulnerable categories of the population, and particularly with representatives of workers in rural areas and in the informal economy, with a view to securing their cooperation in formulating and giving effect to employment policy programmes and measures.

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1. Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. Labour market trends and active employment policy. The Committee notes the information supplied by the Government in September 2006 in reply to its direct request of 2005. The Government indicates in its report that a total of 57,099 women and 49,148 men have benefited from employment incentive programmes either through work experience schemes or job/training contracts. The Committee notes that the Vocational Integration Fund (FIAP) has enabled more than 48,000 women (66.26 per cent of beneficiaries) to follow a course of vocational training over the last seven years. The Government indicates that the National Employment Fund aims to fund operations to improve the qualifications of jobseekers and that more than 565,000 persons, 35 per cent of which were women, benefited from its measures between 2000 and 2005. The Committee reminds the Government of its wish to evaluate information on the way in which the main areas of economic policy, such as the monetary, budgetary, commercial or regional development aspects, contribute “within the framework of a coordinated economic and social policy” to the achievement of the employment objectives laid down by the Convention. In this respect, it asks the Government to include in its next report detailed information on the overall situation, level and trends as regards employment, unemployment and underemployment, particularly for women and young persons seeking access to the job market.

2. Employment market policies to promote balanced and integrated regional development. The Committee notes that regional development has absolute priority owing to the fact that it constitutes a strategic choice in the country’s development policy. The Government indicates that the Ministry of Youth Employment and Vocational Integration has developed a local approach for the promotion of employment and the creation of enterprises with the participation of the social partners of the region concerned. Each region has drawn up a Regional Plan for the Creation of Employment and Enterprises fixing employment priorities and annual objectives. The Committee requests the Government to supply information on the results achieved by the measures adopted to promote balanced regional development of productive employment.

3. Promotion of small and micro-enterprises. The Government indicates that it has developed training and support measures for promoting small and micro-enterprises. A one-year training programme has been set up for holders of higher education diplomas and short training courses in self-employment for young persons at national and regional levels are also available. In this respect, support measures for small enterprise funding have been in place since 1981 with the establishment of the National Fund for the Promotion of Handicrafts and Small Trades (FONAPRA) and, in 2005, the Bank for Small and Medium-sized Enterprise Funding. The Committee notes that the Tunisian Bank of Solidarity (BTS) facilitates access to bank credit for entrepreneurs and that it financed 81,803 micro-enterprise projects between 1998 and 2005, including 25,437 set up by women. The Committee asks the Government to continue promoting full productive employment particularly by the setting up of small and micro-enterprises. In this respect the Government may wish to refer to the provisions of the Job Creation in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Recommendation, 1998 (No. 189).

4. Collection and use of employment data. The Committee again asks the Government to indicate in its next report what steps it has taken to coordinate the various information systems (National Employment and Self-Employment Agency, Employment Observatory and National Institute of Statistics) for the production and dissemination of statistics on the labour market.

5. Article 3. Participation of the social partners in the preparation and formulation of policy. The Government indicates that the Higher Council for Human Resources Development, which comprises members of the Government and representatives of the social partners, issues opinions on aspects of national policy regarding employment, education, higher education and vocational training. The Committee requests the Government to continue to supply information on the effectiveness of the participation of the social partners in the preparation and application of the various employment programmes, stating in what way representatives of other sectors of the active population, such as persons working in agriculture and the informal sector, are consulted.

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1. Implementation of the employment policy within the framework of a coordinated economic and social policy. In reply to the observation made in 2003, the Committee notes the information supplied by the Government in a report received in August 2004. The Committee notes that unemployment affected 14.3 per cent of the active population in 2003 (a slight drop compared with previous years when the rate remained stable at around 15 per cent over the past two decades). For young people aged between 15 and 24 years, the employment rate is over 30 per cent, particularly for young people with higher education qualifications which appears to indicate that the qualifications obtained in the training system are not suited to current job market needs. In addition, the overall rate of activity for the active population remained at 48 per cent between 1990 and 2000 while, over the same period, the percentage of women working rose to 23.8 per cent. The number of jobs created annually between 1997 and 2001 was 71,000 on average while there were 79,000 new entrants to the labour market annually. The Committee welcomes the fact that progress in the employment situation is considered a constant feature of the general employment policy and that the Government plans to carry out five studies on employment in collaboration with the World Bank during the period 2004-06. Further, the Government plans to change the periodicity of the annual employment survey to three months as from 2005. The Committee notes with interest that a first survey was carried out with enterprises in the sectors of tourism, the mechanical and electrical industries, leather, footwear and textile industries. It requests that the Government supply in its next report, up-to-date information on measures taken to ensure that the objective of full and productive employment is at the core of its macroeconomic and social policies. The Government is also asked to supply information disaggregated by group on the results achieved, particularly for young people and women, of the measures for improving the supply of occupational and technical training, the promotion of small and microbusinesses as well as on the number of jobs created by the various types of employment contract and employment promotion programmes mentioned in its report (Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention).

2. The Committee requests that the Government indicate in its next report the measures taken to coordinate the various information systems (information system of the National Employment and Self-Employment Agency, Employment Observatory, National Statistics Institute) which contribute to the production and circulation of statistics on the labour market.

3. Article 3. The Committee notes that a standing commission for employment promotion was established on 8 April 2004 in the Higher Council for Human Resources Development. In its 2003 observation, the Committee indicated its interest in being informed of the opinions issued by the Higher Council and the manner in which they were taken into account during the adoption of decisions on employment policy. In particular, with reference to Article 2 of the Convention, it requests the Government to indicate its methods for formulating and keeping under review its employment policy within the framework of a coordinated economic and social policy, in consultation with the representatives of persons working in the rural and informal sectors. Please indicate how data on the labour market collected by the various information systems is accessible to the social partners and shared with them.

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1. Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. The Committee notes the Government’s report received in 2002, which contains useful information in reply to its previous comments and on the achievements relating to employment in the framework of the Ninth Development Plan (1997-2001). The Government indicates in its report that during the course of the Ninth Plan some 322,000 jobs were created. Unemployment has tended to decline and is now 15 per cent. The proportion of illiterate unemployed has also fallen to the level of 9.5 per cent. The Committee requests that the Government provide any data or estimates available with its next report so as to enable the Committee to examine the situation and trends of the labour market. The Committee also asks the Government to provide an indication of the manner in which labour market statistics are kept up to date in the periods between the national population-employment surveys.

2. The Government has implemented a Tenth Economic and Social Development Plan (2002-06). Under this Plan, employment policy is designed to develop human resources and encourage self-employment and investment in employment-intensive sectors. The Government envisages in particular strengthening the role of the private sector with a view to accelerating the pace of investment and thereby increasing the growth rate of jobs. By giving priority to employment in the various sectoral policies, the Government is giving effect to its commitment to achieve the objective of full employment. The Plan also envisages the implementation of an information and analysis system with a view to monitoring employment trends and the level of unemployment. The Committee notes this information and would be grateful if the Government would continue to provide detailed information on the various programmes implemented and their effect on the promotion of employment, both at the overall level and as regards specific categories of workers, such as women, young persons, older workers and the disabled. It also requests that the Government provide information on underemployment, as requested in the report form.

3. Article 3. The Committee notes with interest the establishment of a Higher Council for Human Resources Development which includes representatives of the Ministries of Education, Vocational Training, Employment and Higher Education, as well as representatives of political parties, occupational associations and national organizations, including representatives of the social partners. The Council issues opinions on national policy orientations  in relation to education and vocational training with the view to ensuring the coherence and coordination of national plans relating to human resource development. The Committee invites the Government to provide further information on the operation of the Council, with an indication of the opinions issued and the manner in which they have been taken into account in the decisions adopted on employment policies. In particular, with reference to Article 2 of the Convention, it would be grateful if the Government would indicate the procedures followed for deciding on and keeping under review its employment policy within the framework of a coordinated economic and social policy, in consultation with the representatives of employers and workers, as well as representatives of persons working in the rural sector and the informal economy.

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The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its 2001 direct request which read as follows:

1. The Committee notes the information provided by the Government in October 2000 in reply to its 1999 observation. The Government indicates that, following the National Employment Conference (July 1998), an employment promotion strategy was implemented with a view to promoting market mechanisms and creating jobs through the encouragement of private investment, exports and a programme of privatization of public enterprises. Employment was made a priority in all sectoral policies and a National Employment Fund was created in 1999. Since 1997, the Tunisian Bank of Solidarity has been facilitating greater access by micro-enterprises to bank credits. The Committee trusts that the Government will continue to give priority in its plans and programmes to the objectives of full employment and that it will provide detailed information in its next report on the manner in which the employment objectives set out in the Ninth Development Plan (1997-2001) have been achieved (Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention). It would be grateful if the Government would provide detailed information on the situation, level and trends of employment, unemployment and underemployment, particularly with regard to women and young persons who are seeking to gain access to the labour market.

2. The Committee notes that a programme for the enhancement of vocational training and employment (MANFORME) (1996-2002) is being carried out by the Ministry of Vocational Training and Employment. It requests that the Government indicate the results achieved by the MANFORME programme, as well as of any other measures taken to coordinate education and training policies with prospective employment opportunities.

3. Article 3 (in conjunction with Article 2). The Committee notes that a process of dialogue with all the partners concerned, and particularly the social partners, has been established. This process of dialogue has been strengthened by the National Employment Declaration concluded in July 1998 following the National Employment Conference. It hopes that the Government will continue to provide information on the manner in which the employment policy is determined and regularly reviewed, in the context of a coordinated economic and social policy, in consultation with the representatives of employers’ and workers’ organizations, and the representatives of rural workers and informal sector workers.

4. Part V of the report form. Among the measures taken concerning investment, the Government refers to the implementation of pilot programmes for the training and support of potential promoters and entrepreneurs through the introduction of new forms of training, such as the ILO’s SYB (Start Your Enterprise) and IYB (Improve Your Enterprise) methods. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would indicate in its next report any action taken as a result of the assistance received from the ILO in the field of employment policy.

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1. The Committee notes the information provided by the Government in October 2000 in reply to its 1999 observation. The Government indicates that, following the National Employment Conference (July 1998), an employment promotion strategy was implemented with a view to promoting market mechanisms and creating jobs through the encouragement of private investment, exports and a programme of privatization of public enterprises. Employment was made a priority in all sectoral policies and a National Employment Fund was created in 1999. Since 1997, the Tunisian Bank of Solidarity has been facilitating greater access by micro-enterprises to bank credits. The Committee trusts that the Government will continue to give priority in its plans and programmes to the objectives of full employment and that it will provide detailed information in its next report on the manner in which the employment objectives set out in the Ninth Development Plan (1997-2001) have been achieved (Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention). It would be grateful if the Government would provide detailed information on the situation, level and trends of employment, unemployment and underemployment, particularly with regard to women and young persons who are seeking to gain access to the labour market.

2. The Committee notes that a programme for the enhancement of vocational training and employment (MANFORME) (1996-2002) is being carried out by the Ministry of Vocational Training and Employment. It requests that the Government indicate the results achieved by the MANFORME programme, as well as of any other measures taken to coordinate education and training policies with prospective employment opportunities.

3. Article 3 (in conjunction with Article 2). The Committee notes that a process of dialogue with all the partners concerned, and particularly the social partners, has been established. This process of dialogue has been strengthened by the National Employment Declaration concluded in July 1998 following the National Employment Conference. It hopes that the Government will continue to provide information on the manner in which the employment policy is determined and regularly reviewed, in the context of a coordinated economic and social policy, in consultation with the representatives of employers’ and workers’ organizations, and the representatives of rural workers and informal sector workers.

4. Part V of the report form. Among the measures taken concerning investment, the Government refers to the implementation of pilot programmes for the training and support of potential promoters and entrepreneurs through the introduction of new forms of training, such as the ILO’s SYB (Start Your Enterprise) and IYB (Improve Your Enterprise) methods. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would indicate in its next report any action taken as a result of the assistance received from the ILO in the field of employment policy.

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Article 1 of the Convention. The Government states in its report for 1998 that unemployment remained at about 15.5 per cent due to restructuring and drought. However, the eighth development plan resulted in the creation of 280,000 new posts, mainly in industry and services, and the Government had over 80,000 participants in its programmes. For the ninth plan, the Government has revised its employment programme and education and training system in light of labour demands. The Government states that employment remains its top priority and it aims to decrease the gap between labour supply and labour demand. Measures to promote employment include encouraging investment, increasing exports, increasing productivity, and bringing about social peace. The Government intends to improve the adaptation of education and training to labour demand, increase the capacity of training institutes and revise education and training curricula with input from the business community. The Government has also identified self-employment and small enterprise development as key components of its new development plan. Specific measures to promote entrepreneurism include reducing the cost of labour through decreased social taxes and health insurance contributions, encouraging banks to finance small enterprises, establishing a special bank to provide credit, and creating three pilot zones for entrepreneurship. The Committee notes this information and requests further details on progress made in preparing jobseekers for the labour market, particularly women and youth, and in promoting small enterprises and stimulating labour demand. It also asks the Government to include in its next report more detailed information on how the budgetary and monetary policies contribute to employment promotion, and on the Government's sectoral development policies.

The Committee also notes that the Government intends to develop a database on trends in the labour market and to undertake biannual studies. The Committee hopes that this project will be completed in the near future and looks forward to receiving more detailed information on the trends in employment, unemployment and underemployment, both in the aggregate and as they affect particular categories of workers such as women, youth, older workers, and workers with disabilities. It also would appreciate receiving extracts or copies of the studies produced, as requested in Part VI of the report form.

Article 3, in conjunction with Article 2. Further to its previous comments, the Committee notes that the report does not contain any further information on the Economic and Social Council, although the Government does state that it aims to solidify the consultation process. The Government also states that it is making efforts to improve social dialogue in general. The Committee recalls the obligation to ensure that the employment policy is decided on and kept under review within the framework of a coordinated economic and social policy, in consultation with representatives of employers' and workers' organizations, as well as representatives of rural and informal sector workers. It would appreciate being kept informed of progress made in this respect.

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The Committee notes that the Government's report contains no reply to its previous comments. It must therefore repeat its previous observation which read as follows:

1. The Committee took note of the Government's report for 1996 and the information it contains in reply to its previous observation. It regrets, however, that the report does not contain statistical data allowing appreciation of the situation and trends in the active population, employment, underemployment and unemployment. The Committee requests the Government to supply any data or estimates available on this subject in its next report, indicating how they are updated in the intervals separating national surveys on population and employment. Recalling that the VIIIth Economic and Social Development Plan envisaged achieving a reduction of unemployment rate to 13 per cent in 1996, it requests the Government to indicate the type of difficulties encountered in achieving this objective, indicating to what extent they have been overcome. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would describe the growth and employment objectives of the IXth Plan (1997-2001) and supply the relevant extracts. 2. In its report, the Government provides information which relates mostly to the reforms completed or in progress in order to strengthen the initial and further vocational training system and to adapt it to the new requirements of the economy. The Committee recalls its interest in information on other aspects of economic and social policy having an impact on employment. It requests the Government to indicate in its next report how the measures taken in fields such as investment policy, budgetary and monetary policies and price, incomes and wages policies contribute to promoting full, productive and freely chosen employment. In addition, the Committee again asks the Government to indicate the measures that have been taken or are envisaged to ensure that the implementation of the recent association agreement concluded with the European Community has a beneficial impact on the employment situation. 3. The Committee notes the indications on the number of beneficiaries of measures for the integration of young people into the labour market and the implementation of the integrated programme of support for the creation of employment in backward regions. It would be grateful if the Government would continue to provide information, as detailed as possible, on the implementation of the various labour market policy measures, and supply any available evaluation of their results in terms of effective and lasting integration in employment of those concerned. 4. Article 3 of the Convention. The Government indicates that the National Council for Vocational Training and Employment, in which representatives of employers' and workers' organizations participate, contributes to the formulation of development plans for employment and vocational training. It adds that the Economic and Social Council is consulted on the General National Economic and Social Development Plan and will examine the draft legislative texts relating to employment. The Committee recalls that under this important provision of the Convention, representatives of all the sectors concerned must be consulted on employment policies, in both formulating and implementing the policies. It requests the Government to supply examples of recent consultations in the bodies it mentions, specifying the opinions received and how they were taken into account.

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1. The Committee took note of the Government's report for 1996 and the information it contains in reply to its previous observation. It regrets, however, that the report does not contain statistical data allowing appreciation of the situation and trends in the active population, employment, underemployment and unemployment. The Committee requests the Government to supply any data or estimates available on this subject in its next report, indicating how they are updated in the intervals separating national surveys on population and employment. Recalling that the VIIIth Economic and Social Development Plan envisaged achieving a reduction of unemployment rate to 13 per cent in 1996, it requests the Government to indicate the type of difficulties encountered in achieving this objective, indicating to what extent they have been overcome. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would describe the growth and employment objectives of the IXth Plan (1997-2001) and supply the relevant extracts.

2. In its report, the Government provides information which relates mostly to the reforms completed or in progress in order to strengthen the initial and further vocational training system and to adapt it to the new requirements of the economy. The Committee recalls its interest in information on other aspects of economic and social policy having an impact on employment. It requests the Government to indicate in its next report how the measures taken in fields such as investment policy, budgetary and monetary policies and price, incomes and wages policies contribute to promoting full, productive and freely chosen employment. In addition, the Committee again asks the Government to indicate the measures that have been taken or are envisaged to ensure that the implementation of the recent association agreement concluded with the European Community has a beneficial impact on the employment situation.

3. The Committee notes the indications on the number of beneficiaries of measures for the integration of young people into the labour market and the implementation of the integrated programme of support for the creation of employment in backward regions. It would be grateful if the Government would continue to provide information, as detailed as possible, on the implementation of the various labour market policy measures, and supply any available evaluation of their results in terms of effective and lasting integration in employment of those concerned.

4. Article 3 of the Convention. The Government indicates that the National Council for Vocational Training and Employment, in which representatives of employers' and workers' organizations participate, contributes to the formulation of development plans for employment and vocational training. It adds that the Economic and Social Council is consulted on the General National Economic and Social Development Plan and will examine the draft legislative texts relating to employment. The Committee recalls that under this important provision of the Convention, representatives of all the sectors concerned must be consulted on employment policies, in both formulating and implementing the policies. It requests the Government to supply examples of recent consultations in the bodies it mentions, specifying the opinions received and how they were taken into account.

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The Committee notes that the Government's report has not been received. It must therefore repeat its previous observation which read as follows:

1. The Committee notes with interest the Government's report for the period ending June 1994, which contains valuable information on changes in the employment situation and on the objectives, forecasts and achievements of the VIIIth Economic and Social Development Plan (1992-96). The Committee notes that around 14 per cent of the active population were unemployed in 1993 and that nearly one half of the unemployed were under 25 years of age. The Government states that, in view of the growth of the active population, the creation of new jobs during the first two years of the implementation of the VIIIth Plan was lower than the planned annual average rates required to achieve the objective of an unemployment rate of 13 per cent in 1996. It nevertheless remains confident that this priority objective can be achieved as a result of structural reforms to encourage investment and employment in industry and services, as well as specific measures designed to promote the occupational integration of young persons. The Committee requests the Government to indicate any new general economic policy measure adopted to promote the expansion of employment. In particular, it would be grateful if the Government would indicate the measures that have been taken or are envisaged to ensure that the implementation of the recent association agreement concluded with the European Union has a beneficial impact on the employment situation. 2. The Government reports the harmonization and strengthening during the reporting period of measures to promote the employment of young persons. New measures have been taken to encourage enterprises to recruit the beneficiaries of the various youth employment measures following their training period and, according to the Government, the results achieved bear witness to the improved effectiveness of these measures. The Committee requests the Government to continue supplying detailed information on the evaluation of programmes for the integration of young persons into the labour market and, more generally, on the manner in which education and training policies are coordinated with prospective employment opportunities in the context of the higher school attendance rates. In this respect, the Committee notes the establishment of a National Council for Vocational Training and Employment responsible for issuing opinions and making proposals in the field of employment and training policy. It hopes that the Government will supply full information on the measures proposed by this body and in reply to the request addressed directly to it concerning the application of the Human Resources Development Convention, 1975 (No. 142). The Committee also notes the implementation of a new integrated programme of support for the creation of employment in backward regions which is designed to combat unemployment and poverty in rural areas through the provision of assistance to young entrepreneurs and increased measures to promote artisans and micro-enterprises. It also requests the Government to indicate the results achieved by this programme in its next report. 3. The Committee notes with interest that the National Council for Vocational Training and Employment, referred to above, includes representatives of employers' and workers' organizations. It requests the Government to indicate whether the Economic and Social Council also examines matters relating to employment policy. The Committee recalls in this respect that the consultations required under Article 3 of the Convention should include representatives of the persons affected by the measures to be taken, such as those working in the rural sector and the informal sector, and that they should cover all aspects of economic policy that affect employment.

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1. The Committee notes with interest the Government's report for the period ending June 1994, which contains valuable information on changes in the employment situation and on the objectives, forecasts and achievements of the VIIIth Economic and Social Development Plan (1992-96). The Committee notes that around 14 per cent of the active population were unemployed in 1993 and that nearly one half of the unemployed were under 25 years of age. The Government states that, in view of the growth of the active population, the creation of new jobs during the first two years of the implementation of the VIIIth Plan was lower than the planned annual average rates required to achieve the objective of an unemployment rate of 13 per cent in 1996. It nevertheless remains confident that this priority objective can be achieved as a result of structural reforms to encourage investment and employment in industry and services, as well as specific measures designed to promote the occupational integration of young persons. The Committee requests the Government to indicate any new general economic policy measure adopted to promote the expansion of employment. In particular, it would be grateful if the Government would indicate the measures that have been taken or are envisaged to ensure that the implementation of the recent association agreement concluded with the European Union has a beneficial impact on the employment situation.

2. The Government reports the harmonization and strengthening during the reporting period of measures to promote the employment of young persons. New measures have been taken to encourage enterprises to recruit the beneficiaries of the various youth employment measures following their training period and, according to the Government, the results achieved bear witness to the improved effectiveness of these measures. The Committee requests the Government to continue supplying detailed information on the evaluation of programmes for the integration of young persons into the labour market and, more generally, on the manner in which education and training policies are coordinated with prospective employment opportunities in the context of the higher school attendance rates. In this respect, the Committee notes the establishment of a National Council for Vocational Training and Employment responsible for issuing opinions and making proposals in the field of employment and training policy. It hopes that the Government will supply full information on the measures proposed by this body and in reply to the request addressed directly to it concerning the application of the Human Resources Development Convention, 1975 (No. 142). The Committee also notes the implementation of a new integrated programme of support for the creation of employment in backward regions which is designed to combat unemployment and poverty in rural areas through the provision of assistance to young entrepreneurs and increased measures to promote artisans and micro-enterprises. It also requests the Government to indicate the results achieved by this programme in its next report.

3. The Committee notes with interest that the National Council for Vocational Training and Employment, referred to above, includes representatives of employers' and workers' organizations. It requests the Government to indicate whether the Economic and Social Council also examines matters relating to employment policy. The Committee recalls in this respect that the consultations required under Article 3 of the Convention should include representatives of the persons affected by the measures to be taken, such as those working in the rural sector and the informal sector, and that they should cover all aspects of economic policy that affect employment.

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1. With reference to its previous observation, the Committee notes with interest the Government's report, which includes a set of valuable information on the achievements of the VIIth National Economic and Social Development Plan (1987-91) in the field of employment, and the situation and recent trends on the labour market, as well as the main objectives of the VIIIth Plan with regard to employment policy. According to the data compiled in the latest national population-employment survey, the unemployment rate was 15.3 per cent of the reference active population in 1989. The considerable growth of employment, although below the forecast level, has proved insufficient to absorb the growth in the population of working age. The Government states in its report that unemployment remains a matter of concern. It continues to affect massively young persons seeking their first job and persons with a lower educational level, and it affects the sexes and the regions in an unequal manner.

2. The Government describes how, in relation with the implementation since 1986 of the structural adjustment plan, the policy of combating unemployment, which was essentially social in origin, has developed towards a more active concept of promoting the creation of employment and developing programmes for the most vulnerable categories of the population. The Government's report contains, in this connection, statistical data on the number of young persons who have benefited from employment-training contracts or a vocational integration course, as well as on the increasing number of jobs created within the framework of projects financed by the National Fund for the Promotion of Employment and Small Trades. The Committee hopes that the Government will be able to specify in its next report the extent to which these programmes have contributed to the effective and lasting integration of the persons concerned into employment. It also notes the information on the contribution of the various regional development programmes to combating employment and underemployment. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would supply any available assessment of the impact of these programmes on the employment of the categories of persons for which they are intended.

3. The Committee notes the general objectives of the employment policy set out in the VIIIth Plan (1992-96). The policy to further develop structural adjustment, the opening up to the world economy and the modernization of the means of production are aimed at promoting exports, regional development and the creation of jobs. Based on a theoretical annual growth rate of 6 per cent, the growth in the number of jobs should exceed, for the first time, that of the active population and should make it possible to lower the unemployment rate to around 13 per cent by the end of the period. The Committee will not fail to follow with interest the achievement of these objectives. It also notes that it is planned to strengthen the various specific programmes for the promotion of employment intended for the social categories which are experiencing difficulties. It notes with interest, in relation to its comments on the Government's first report on the application of Convention No. 142, the emphasis placed on the development of a system of vocational training which is coordinated with prospective employment opportunities. The Committee requests the Government to continue to supply detailed information on the results achieved in each of these fields. With reference to its previous requests, it would be grateful if the Government would describe the manner in which representatives of the persons affected are consulted concerning employment policies, in accordance with Article 3 of the Convention. It would also be grateful if the Government would supply the relevant extracts of the VIIIth Plan (1992-96) (point VI of the report form).

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1. The Committee notes the information provided by the Government in its general report in 1989, and in the report on the application of the Convention for the period ending 30 June 1990. According to this information, some 170,000 new jobs were created during the first four years of the VIIth National Economic and Social Development Plan, 1987-91. The objective of this Plan was to create 240,000 jobs, in view of an estimated rise of 70,000 in the annual demand for jobs, although this estimate was raised to a lower figure (40,000 per year) after taking into account the extension of school attendance and the net flow of migrants. These results have been attributed by the Government to an employment promotion policy based on four central themes: renewal of economic growth, a new policy for enterprises, the promotion of labour-intensive activities, the demographic policy and the development of human resources. With reference to its previous observation, the Committee notes this information with interest, although it observes that the information only very partially describes the situation, level and trends of employment, unemployment and underemployment.

2. The Committee also notes the detailed information concerning the various selective and specific employment policy measures, such as: the promotion of investment in the service sector, particularly through tax incentives that are directly linked to employment, a policy of easy credit to the crafts and fishing sectors, and measures to decrease the cost of labour through a reduction in the social contributions of enterprises. The Committee particularly notes the measures and programmes that have been introduced to combat the persistent difficulty of the integration of young persons into the labour market, and particularly the introduction of persons with secondary and higher education qualifications to working life, as well as the strengthening of the vocational training programmes undertaken by the Vocational Training and Employment Office (OFPE). In this connection, the report indicates that, in order to promote vocational training and employment, the OFPE has undertaken a structural and operational reform of its central and regional services so as to improve the effectiveness of the vocational training system and improving placement services. The Government once again supplies information on its regional development policy measures, and in particular on rural development, and on the continuing programme of labour-intensive works.

3. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would supply information on the situation, level and trends of employment, unemployment and underemployment, both in aggregate and as they affect particular categories of workers such as women, young persons, older workers and disabled workers, and if it would continue indicating the extent to which the employment objectives set out in the VIIth Plan have been achieved and state the special difficulties that have been encountered (Article 1 of the Convention). It also requests the Government to continue supplying information on the impact of selective employment policy measures, particularly those intended to satisfy the needs of the categories of workers specified above. It would also be grateful if the Government would describe the policy that is followed as regards the aspects of international migration that are related to employment policy.

4. Finally, the Committee notes that employers' and workers' organisations are represented on the national training and employment commission, which is responsible for determining the employment policy within the framework of the preparation of the VIIIth National Economic and Social Development Plan, 1992-96. It would be grateful if the Government would supply information on the manner in which the representatives of the persons affected are consulted, and the results of these consultations, in accordance with Article 3 of the Convention, particularly as regards the preparation and implementation of the employment policy within the framework of the VIIIth Plan. More generally, it hopes that the Government will not fail to supply information in future reports on the employment objectives set out in the VIIIth National Economic and Social Development Plan, 1992-96, and on the measures taken to pursue "an active policy designed to promote full, productive and freely chosen employment".

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1. The Committee notes the information provided by the Government in its general report in 1987, and in the report on the application of the Convention for the period ending 30 June 1988. It notes with interest the adoption of the VIIth National Economic and Social Development Plan, 1987-91, and the priority which it gives to employment promotion, which the Government has stated remains a fundamental objective of the national development strategy.

2. The VIIth Plan notes an imbalance between employment offers and demand which could not be corrected by emigration during the VIth Plan because of a reversal in migratory movements. Unemployment in 1986 was estimated at 264,000 persons, or a rate of 13.8 per cent of the active population (as compared with 11.4 per cent in 1980). The VIIth Plan provides for the creation of nearly 240,000 new jobs, of which more than half are to be in the service sector. The active population is expected to increase at an accelerated pace and, at the end of the Plan period, the Plan provides that only 69 per cent of the additional demand for employment (346,000) will be covered by job creation. In order to maintain unemployment at tolerable levels, the Plan adopts an employment strategy based on three principal options: renewal of economic growth; a "new policy for enterprises" based on improvements in competitivity; and action on job demand aimed at attenuating present demographic increases and implementing a training policy better adapted to the needs of the economy and to the need for insertion into employment of the young unskilled.

3. The Committee also notes two categories of legislative measures taken recently in relation to economic and employment policy. One category aims at encouraging investments in the manufacturing, agriculture and fishing sectors, through various incentives contained in investment codes adopted for these activities. The other category is intended to promote the employment of young persons by the establishment of a system for voluntary early retirement which will make compensatory recruitment necessary; the granting of financial advantages (subsidies, exemption from social charges) to undertakings which hire young persons between 17 and 25 years of age who have completed a study or training curriculum; the reduction of vocational training taxes; and the implementation of a system of internships for initiation of young graduates to work.

4. The Committee notes that the programmes and measures taken indicate the Government's willingness to formulate and apply a policy which promotes the Convention's objectives. The employment situation nevertheless remains a source of concern, and the planners expect unemployment to increase. The Committee hopes that the Government will indicate in its next report the degree to which the employment objectives defined in the VIIth Plan are being achieved, indicating whether particular difficulties have been encountered in this connection. It would also be grateful if the Governemnt would provide information on the practical effect of the measures adopted to promote the access of young persons to productive and stable employment. Finally, it would be grateful if the Government would communicate information on consultations with representatives of the persons affected, as provided in Article 3 of the Convention, concerning the implementation of the employment policy in the framework of the VIIth Plan.