For years, Tunisia's electricity and gas workers union, the Fédération Nationale de l'Electricité et du Gaz (FNEG) took to the streets of Tunis, Sfax, and Gabes against government energy policies that favored foreign investors over workers' rights and public services. They sent letter after letter to the Ministry, to the Energy Transition office, but they were ignored by the authorities. 

In March 2025, the union's administrative committee held a forum where they resolved to commence a nationwide strike on July 17. Union organisers went round the country, rallying workers with a simple message: this strike would be their chance to reclaim dignity and secure better working conditions for workers.

Union action is primarily aimed at countering government policies designed to satisfy private capital.

On July 11, the authorities called for a negotiation that ended on a deadlock. But on July 14, union leaders finally forced the government to listen. Workers secured important victories: 

• Provision of social benefits for all workers in the sector.

• The payment of a long-overdue 2020 economy grant to workers.

• The halt of unfavourable electricity contracts that favour private foreign capitalists.

• Recognition of the Tunisian Electricity and Gas Company as key player in Tunisia's energy transition. 

Ilyes Ben Ammar, General Secretary, FNEG stated: “Union action is primarily aimed at countering government policies designed to satisfy private capital. This agreement has unlocked workers’ benefits that have been denied for almost five years”. 

Workers didn't just win concessions; they forced the government to prioritise public sector workers and public service. The doors are now open for continuous negotiations for Tunisia's 2035 energy transition plan, and workers have a seat at the table.