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Urgent files on Jordan’s political agenda

Oct 01,2017 - Last updated at Oct 01,2017

The fast-moving dynamics of regional geopolitics demand a new perspective on the challenges, risks and solutions that each country faces.

In Jordan, we are seeing unfavourable changes in the economy, particularly regarding debt and GDP, as well as an increase in radicalisation.

In order to face these challenges, we may need a new, more scientific approach and a systematic roadmap with short-, medium- and long-term measures and strategies. 

The major current and future challenges for Jordan stem from the deteriorating economic situation and its impact on people.

The regional situation, security concerns and political challenges are reshaping historical alliances and that, in turn, amplifies the economic downturn.

The new reality means that we can no longer depend on aid and donations; we must create an independent and productive economy that relies on a functioning and sustainable taxation system.

While this is not an easy or quick process, in order to start down this path, the political elite must change the way it thinks and urgently develop a concrete strategy for change.

Socioeconomic change should happen across all Jordanian cities and villages, based on the needs and characteristics of each area.

We must be more realistic with microeconomic projects involving local communities, food security plans and cooperatives. We should also see more diverse projects, in the field of alternative energy and sustainable agriculture, for example, for this is how we secure an independent future for the country.

We must also address the insidious threat of radicalisation with a more comprehensive and effective plan.

Our security services deserve to be commended for their work protecting us. But while they are working to address the symptoms, we must also address the underlying illness.

Our anti-terrorism strategies cannot be limited to security measures and investigations. The real battle against terrorism and radicalisation is a cultural one, and it is a long and complex process.

At the very least, we need a clear vision, political determination and, above all, day-to-day actions and follow up.

An effective anti-terrorism strategy also addresses the socioeconomic issues underlying radicalisation; it should address poverty and the cultural changes.

We must empower our people to enable them to take control of their lives so that they have hope and strive for the future, rather than stay victims of the past.

The political elite must also make an effort to restore the credibility of public institutions and policies. This must be done through a transparent channel of dialogue with the people.

The government should have preventive policies, forecasting crises before they bubble to the surface, rather than reacting, ignoring or sweeping issues under the carpet.

It seems to be chasing the issues after they appear, like in the case of the assassination of Nahed Hattar last year or the viral spread of rumours on social media accepted as truth by citizens.

 

The challenges of today are likely to be the threats and risks of tomorrow, so we must intervene and prevent them from evolving while also planning and building the country and society we all want to live in.

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