Tunisia is divided into 24 governates, which constitute the country's primary administrative subdivisions. Each governate functions as the principal level of regional governance, responsible for implementing national policies and coordinating public services within its territory. Governates are administered by governors appointed by the central government, who oversee various administrative functions including public health, education, infrastructure development, and local security. This administrative structure serves as the main link between the national government in Tunis and the 264 delegations that form the second level of administrative division. Governates play a crucial role in resource allocation, economic development planning, and the delivery of government services to local populations, while also managing regional budgets and coordinating between municipal authorities and central ministries.