About TIPCS
Advancing the Science of Peace in the Mediterranean
Institutional Overview
Who We Are
The Tunisian Institute for Peace and Conflict Studies (TIPCS) is a leading research institution dedicated to the scientific study of peace dynamics, conflict resolution, and sustainable development across the Mediterranean region. Founded and based in Tunisia—the historical crossroads of civilizations—we connect North African expertise with global knowledge systems to address the complex challenges of our interconnected world.
As a non-partisan organization, we serve as a bridge between scholarly inquiry and policy application, working at the intersection of environmental sustainability, youth empowerment, cultural dialogue, and governance. Our multidisciplinary approach draws on Tunisia's unique position as a beacon of moderation and dialogue in the region, continuing the legacy of thoughtful diplomacy that distinguishes our national heritage.
TIPCS operates through a matrix organizational structure with multiple specialized departments and offices across Tunisia, maintaining our commitment to both local engagement and international collaboration. Our team comprises experts in diverse fields including conflict analysis, environmental studies, international relations, digital innovation, and Mediterranean affairs.
A Tunisian Think Tank Bridging Research, Knowledge, and Action
OUR IDENTITY
We develop evidence-based policies and strategic analyses on peace, security, and development across the Mediterranean.
We conduct rigorous academic research, applying scientific methodologies to understand the dynamics of conflict transformation.
We build connections between North Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, fostering dialogue and collaboration across borders.
Heritage & Legacy
Continuing Tunisia's Legacy of Dialogue and Diplomacy
TIPCS draws inspiration from Tunisia's rich heritage of diplomacy, intellectual exchange, and cross-cultural dialogue that spans millennia:
The Carthaginian Tradition: From our ancient Carthaginian roots, we inherit a legacy of maritime diplomacy, commercial exchange, and Mediterranean connectivity. Carthage stood as a center of civilization that linked cultures across the Mediterranean basin through commerce, scholarship, and strategic thinking—values that continue to inform our work today.
The Barca Legacy: From our Carthaginian forebears emerges the figure of Hannibal Barca (247–183 BC), whose name became synonymous not only with martial prowess, but with innovative diplomacy and intercultural coalition‐building. Hannibal forged alliances—seeking to weave a Mediterranean network united by shared interests. His legendary crossing of the Alps exemplifies both audacity and the power of symbolic engagement to bind diverse communities in a daring enterprise. Beyond the battlefield, Hannibal’s strategic outreach and intelligence networks laid early foundations for what we might today call “soft power,” as he leveraged diplomatic alliances to sustain Mediterranean peace. In honoring Hannibal’s Barca legacy, TIPCS affirms its commitment to combining strategic vision, cross‐cultural dialogue, and adaptive coalition‐building to navigate contemporary challenges in the Mediterranean basin.
The Bourguibian Vision: Our approach honors the diplomatic legacy of President Habib Bourguiba, whose foresight and commitment to moderation, international cooperation, and pragmatic dialogue established Tunisia's reputation for thoughtful engagement in regional and global affairs. Bourguiba's emphasis on education, reasoned discourse, and peaceful resolution of differences provides a philosophical foundation for our methodologies.
Through our work, TIPCS continues this historical tradition of Tunisian thought leadership in Mediterranean affairs, adapting ancient wisdom and modern experience to address contemporary challenges.
Mediterranean Focus
Mediterranean Perspective: A Regional Approach
At the heart of TIPCS's identity is our Mediterranean focus—a recognition that Tunisia's future is inextricably linked to the shared challenges and opportunities of our regional community. Our Mediterranean perspective is characterized by:
Regional Interconnectivity: We view Mediterranean challenges through a lens of interconnectedness, recognizing that water scarcity, migration, environmental sustainability, and security are shared concerns requiring collaborative approaches.
Cross-Cultural Understanding: Our work bridges North-South and East-West Mediterranean divides, creating spaces for dialogue that transcend historical, cultural, and political differences.
Practical Regionalism: Rather than abstract theorizing, we pursue concrete regional initiatives that demonstrate the benefits of Mediterranean cooperation and mutual understanding.
Knowledge Exchange: We facilitate the flow of expertise, methodologies, and lessons learned across Mediterranean societies, creating a shared repository of peace-building knowledge.
Our Mediterranean approach is exemplified by our presence in multiple locations across Tunisia, our extensive partner networks throughout the region, and our commitment to bringing diverse Mediterranean voices into dialogue on shared challenges.
Research Focus Areas
Our Fields of Expertise
Mediterranean Security & Cooperation
Analyzing transboundary security challenges, regional cooperation mechanisms, and multilateral diplomacy frameworks to strengthen Mediterranean stability and integration.
Environmental Peace & Sustainability
Exploring the nexus between environmental challenges, resource management, and conflict dynamics, with special focus on water diplomacy, climate adaptation, and sustainable development.
Social Cohesion & Cultural Dialogue
Investigating approaches to strengthen social fabric through intercultural and interfaith dialogue, identity dynamics, and cultural heritage as resources for peace.
Governance & Institutional Development
Researching governance innovations, institutional resilience, and policy frameworks that support peaceful societies and inclusive decision-making.
Digital Transformation & Peace Technologies
Researching governance innovations, institutional resilience, and policy frameworks that support peaceful societies and inclusive decision-making.
Organizational Structure
Our Structure
TIPCS operates through a sophisticated matrix structure that combines functional expertise with geographic presence:
Board of Directors: Our nine-member Board provides strategic guidance and governance oversight.
Executive Leadership: Our operations are led by a Executive Director supported by directors of Programs and Research, Operations and Finance, and External Relations.
Core Departments:
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Programs Department
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Research and Knowledge Department
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MEAL Department (Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning)
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Operations Department
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External Relations Department
Geographic Presence:
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Administrative Headquarters (Tunis)
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Main Office/Headquarters (Monastir)
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Environmental Studies Department (Monastir)
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Monastir International Agency for Education and Cultural Relations
Partners & Networks
Our Collaborative Ecosystem
TIPCS draws strength from a diverse network of partnerships that enhance our reach and impact:
Academic Partnerships: Collaborations with academic institutions strengthen our research capabilities and global knowledge exchange.
Implementation Partners: Working relationships with local, regional and international NGOs, and community organizations that translate research into practical action.
Funding Relationships: Strategic partnerships with the main worldwide donors, agencies, foundations, and private sector entities that support our initiatives.
Regional Networks: Active membership in Mediterranean cooperation platforms.
Government Collaborations: Productive engagement with main stakeholders, locally, regionally and internationally to inform policy and practice.
Through these diverse partnerships, TIPCS creates a multilayered ecosystem for knowledge generation, practical implementation, and sustainable impact.
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