Professor Niall Barr of the Defence Studies Department was invited to Tunis from the 9 - 11 May 2018 by the British Ambassador, Louise De Souza, and the British Defence Attache, Capt David Robertson.

Initially attending a meeting with the Tunisian Institute for Strategic Studies (ITES),  to discuss their approach to Strategic Studies. The ITES is a non-partisan research institution set up in 1993 with the focus of undertaking strategic research and promoting an in-depth understanding of political, economic, social and security issues affecting the future of Tunisia and the international community. It provides assessments of national policies, conducts comprehensive interdisciplinary research and produces relevant policy papers in major domestic and foreign policy areas. 

On Thursday 10th May Prof Barr gave a presentation at the British Residency in Tunis to mark  the commemoration of 'Operation Torch 75', the 75th Anniversary of the Tunisian campaign, which saw British, American and French forces finally defeat the German and Italian Axis forces in Africa and was the key to liberation of Europe and Defence of freedom. This was a huge event with over 200 attendees from all over the world.

On Friday 11 May, Prof Barr gave a talk to the children at the British International School of Tunis on the practice and purpose of military history.  The British International School of Tunis is a primary and secondary school providing an engaging, inspirational and rounded education for children aged 3 to 14 (Nursery to Year 9), following the National Curriculum for England and Wales. Pupils are encouraged to develop the academic skills and personal resources that will enable them to live fulfilling lives wherever they may find themselves, while engaging with the cultural diversity of our unique location for a truly international perspective.

Prof Barr said 'It was a real privelige and pleasure to take part in the commemorations and giving a presentation at the British Residency Tunis on Operation Torch and the Tunisian Campaign was an amazing experience'.