Tunisia’s Djerba island at risk as climate crisis, over-tourism and poor governance collide

Djerba, a historic island off Tunisia’s southeast coast, has long drawn visitors to its ancient ruins left by Phoenicians, Romans, Byzantines and Arabs. But this rich cultural heritage now faces a grave threat from climate change, over-tourism and persistent government inefficiency, according to a report in The Conversation.

Years of unchecked tourism and weak oversight have transformed Djerba’s landscape. Traditional homes have been replaced by modern hotels, while farming, fishing and artisanal trades have declined, now surviving mostly as tourist attractions. The island’s fragile ecosystems are reportedly under severe pressure: excessive tourism generates massive waste and strains limited water supplies.

Climate change is compounding the damage. Rainfall is shrinking and droughts are worsening, while rising seas and stronger storms threaten to engulf Djerba’s coastline. Already, Roman ruins and sacred shrines lie underwater, and 14% of beaches are highly vulnerable to submersion.

Despite these clear threats, critics say Tunisia’s government has failed to act decisively. Neglect, poor funding and weak regulations have left heritage sites crumbling and illegal construction unchecked. Local groups like the Association for the Safeguarding of the Island of Djerba are trying to fill the gap with awareness campaigns and projects to reuse ancient rainwater tanks.

UNESCO’s recent World Heritage Site designation offers hope, but without real climate action and stronger governance, Djerba’s unique legacy could disappear forever.