Tunisian Academics at the Turbulent Times of the ‘Jasmine Revolution’: Publication Challenges and Survival Strategies

Abstract

This study investigates the range of publication difficulties that Tunisian scholars experience especially in post-revolution Tunisia. It also explores the strategies they have deployed in their struggle with the publication process. 12 Tunisian business and economics scholars affiliated to a Tunisian university were interviewed. The accounts attest that Tunisian academics face a litany of socio-economic difficulties which got worse in the aftermath of the 2011 revolution and the ensuing social unrest. Unfavorable research surroundings included unsupportive research environment and an ad hoc state policy. Compensation strategies included working on mega open access data to fight parochialism. The study has important implications for policy making and instructional planning in Higher Education in Tunisia. It points to a generalized need for a research system overhaul to improve the research surroundings.