TUNIS — Under the advisement of President Beji Caid Essebsi, the Tunisian Cabinet on Nov. 23 approved an amendment of the Personal Status Code in a move geared toward furthering equality between men and women in several areas, including gender equality in inheritance. The amendment now requires approval by the parliament to become law.
In a statement following the Cabinet meeting to approve the measure, Essebsi emphasized Tunisia's secularity and the requirement of gender equality in rights and duties, as per Chapter 21 of the constitution. Progressive parties and rights organizations welcomed the amendment, while Islamic groups and other organizations with religious authorities rejected it.