By: Nedal Zubeidi
Jordan Daily – In a recent meeting with a CEO of one of Jordan’s leading consulting and strategic planning companies, it became clear that Jordan is at a pivotal moment. As the kingdom pushes forward with its economic modernization plan, backed by a multitude of global partnerships aimed at revitalizing the public sector, the numbers tell a story of progress. Jordan has seen improvements in various global indicators, particularly in business environment metrics, crime reduction, and the criminal justice system.
The CEO, who founded his firm in 2011, pointed to data that undeniably highlights the country’s advancement. Over the past few years, Jordan has witnessed a marked shift in the mentality and methodology of both government officials and civil servants. Yet, despite these positive trends, ordinary Jordanians remain skeptical. They do not feel the tangible benefits of these reforms in their daily lives. Why is that?
In a parallel development, Prime Minister-designate Dr. Jafar Hassan visited a primary school in the remote area of Bal’ama in Mafraq, as well as a village in Deir Alla. These visits, seemingly away from the spotlight, could be an attempt to convey that Hassan is genuinely in tune with the needs of Jordan’s most vulnerable citizens, far removed from political theater.
Those who have worked closely with Dr. Hassan describe him as pragmatic, politically astute, and deeply experienced in economic matters. His proximity to King Abdullah II, having previously served as the director of the King’s office, has afforded him valuable insight into the King’s vision for national reform. His mission is clear: revitalize the economy, raise the standard of living, and ensure justice and equality for all citizens.
However, I have reservations about some of the names in Dr. Hassan’s government. While it includes prominent figures with remarkable expertise, a few individuals may not meet the expected standards. Perhaps the Prime Minister has a different perspective.
Jordan is grappling with complex geopolitical challenges—Israel’s ongoing conflict with Gaza, the war in Lebanon, and Iranian missile activity in the region, not to mention the recurring violence from extremist Israeli settlers in West Bank. All of these issues demand that Jordan strengthen its internal cohesion and reinforce its social fabric.
As Hassan’s government seeks parliamentary approval next month, it faces an unprecedented test. This will be the first parliament elected based on a general party list system, posing significant challenges to a government already burdened with high expectations. Whether Hassan’s cabinet can earn the trust of both King Abdullah and the Jordanian people while navigating the complexities of the newly elected parliament remains to be seen.
But the question that looms larger: can this government overcome the external and internal crises it has inherited? Can it implement its executive programs with the efficiency needed to stabilize the economy and ensure sustainable growth? Jordan, a country with limited resources, finds itself disproportionately affected by the ongoing conflicts in the region. As regional wars and political upheaval persist, Jordan’s ability to maintain economic resilience is under threat.
Tourism, a vital pillar of Jordan’s economy, has already suffered from the region’s instability. The agricultural sector, too, along with exports from both private and public enterprises, are key components of the national economy that risk further disruption. Additionally, transportation costs have skyrocketed due to challenges at Jordan’s land and sea borders, placing additional strain on state revenues. As a result, the economic burden on the state is increasing, with significant implications for the social well-being of its citizens.
It is in this precarious context that Jordan’s public and private sectors must come together. The only path forward is through collective action, focusing on building a resilient economy capable of weathering these external shocks. This requires moving beyond the political bickering and skepticism that often bogs down meaningful progress. The stakes for Jordan have never been higher.
Jordan is at a crossroads, and its government must prove it can steer the country through these tumultuous times. If it fails, the consequences—both economic and social—could be dire.
