By: Dr. Haytham Ereifej
Attorney-at-Law
Jordan Daily – Jordan facing economic, social, political, and regional challenges is witnessing a renewed debate about the models capable of safeguarding the state, strengthening social justice, and empowering citizens. In this context, social democracy emerges as a balanced and realistic framework, one that unites freedom with justice and reflects the unique nature of Jordan. It also aligns closely with the principles of a national democratic left, which places Jordan’s interests above all ideological considerations.
Social democracy is not merely a political concept; it is a comprehensive approach built on three foundational pillars:
1. Full political democracy, grounded in the rule of law, pluralism, popular participation, and the independence and balance of institutions and authorities.
2. Social and economic justice, aimed at narrowing class gaps, empowering the middle class, and protecting the most vulnerable.
3. A regulated market economy that enables economic activity to flourish under legislation that prevents monopolies and protects national interests.
This model seeks to create a state strong through its institutions, a society strong through its rights, and an economy strong through justice.
Why Social Democracy Fits Jordan
1. A Stable Political System and Strong Institutions
Jordan’s political system anchored in constitutional legitimacy and the Hashemite leadership provides a natural environment for social democracy to flourish. This model enhances political participation, reinforces institutional governance, and protects the country from extremism and volatility.
Social democracy does not challenge the nature of Jordan’s governance; rather, it strengthens it and deepens the citizen’s trust in the state.
2. Addressing Persistent Economic Challenges
Jordan continues to face pressing economic difficulties: unemployment, poverty, a shrinking middle class, and rising living costs. Social democracy offers practical and actionable solutions, including:
-Reforming the tax system to support productive sectors
-Encouraging productive investment over rent-based activity
-Creating real and sustainable job opportunities
-Strengthening social protection networks
-Improving education, healthcare, and essential public services such as transportation
These are not slogans but realistic tools to restore economic balance and empower citizens.
3. Transforming Social Diversity into National Strength
Jordan is a mosaic of tribes, cities, rural communities, camps, and culturally diverse social components. This diversity is not incidental; it is an integral part of Jordan’s national identity.
Social democracy offers a framework that does not erase these differences, but rather turns them into a national asset. This transformation is achieved through:
Equal citizenship: one framework of rights and duties that prevents exclusion and strengthens belonging.
Recognition of diversity: different backgrounds bring diverse experiences and skills, enriching public life and improving decision-making.
From difference to complementarity: when every component feels it is a partner in the nation, all become part of a unified system safeguarding the state.
Fair policies that reduce tension: justice in services and opportunities prevents social disparities from becoming sources of conflict or marginalization.
In this way, Jordan’s social diversity becomes a pillar of national cohesion and stability.
Social Democracy and the Citizen’s Daily Needs
Social democracy speaks directly to the concerns of everyday Jordanians by offering:
1. Real, productive employment opportunities through shifting the economy toward industry, agriculture, technology, and energy.
2. Protection of the middle class, the backbone of Jordanian society, through:
-A fair tax system
-Quality education
-Universal healthcare
-Fair wages
3. A revitalized public service state with better transportation, improved healthcare, and a stronger education system restoring confidence in public institutions.
4. Enhanced dignity and rights, rebuilding trust between the state and the citizen through respect for freedoms and accountability.
Alignment with the Vision of a National Democratic Left
Social democracy fits naturally within the vision of a national democratic left a political approach that puts Jordan before ideology. This project is guided by:
1. Jordan First: protecting national unity, security, and stability.
2. Democracy as a method: reinforcing accountability, civic participation, and separation of powers.
3. Economic justice: recognizing that poverty and unemployment pose greater threats to national security than political differences.
4. Independent national decision making while remaining open to global engagement without dependency.
5. A society rooted in pluralism and the rule of law where unity is built on respect, not exclusion.
Social democracy is the framework that best embodies this national vision, combining political modernization, economic justice, and preservation of Jordan’s cultural and historical identity.
Toward a Jordanian Model of Social Democracy
Jordan is well-positioned to develop a home-grown model of social democracy- built on:
-Its political and institutional legacy.
-Its specific economic realities and limited resources.
-The values of justice, solidarity, and diversity within society.
-The country’s ongoing political, economic, and administrative modernization efforts.
This path represents a third way- between unrestrained capitalism and rigid socialism- one that places the Jordanian citizen at the center of national transformation.
Social democracy is not a theoretical aspiration; it is a national necessity for ensuring economic stability, protecting the middle class, and advancing justice and citizenship. It fully aligns with the vision of a national democratic left that puts Jordan at the top of its priorities.
Building such a model could be a strategic step toward a stronger, fairer, and more resilient Jordan capable of facing the future while preserving its identity, stability, and core values.
