Page 1 of 9

Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal – Vol. 10, No. 11

Publication Date: November 25, 2023

DOI:10.14738/assrj.1011.15899.

Gabbay, S. M. (2023). Balancing Acts: Jordan’s Remarkable Stability Amidst Regional Conflict and Humanitarian Response. Advances

in Social Sciences Research Journal, 10(11). 193-201.

Services for Science and Education – United Kingdom

Balancing Acts: Jordan’s Remarkable Stability Amidst Regional

Conflict and Humanitarian Response

Shaul M. Gabbay

Global Research Institute,

Posner Center for International Development, Denver, CO USA

ABSTRACT

This paper examines the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan's nuanced balancing act in

maintaining stability amidst regional conflict and an unprecedented refugee crisis.

It explores Jordan's multifaceted approach, which encompasses astute governance,

economic innovation, social cohesion, and humanitarian outreach in the face of

challenges posed by the Syrian crisis and the resultant demographic shifts. Through

a comprehensive analysis of policy responses, economic strategies, and social

integration efforts, the paper underscores Jordan's resilience and strategic

diplomacy. It further discusses how Jordan’s leadership under King Abdullah II has

steered the nation towards a sustainable future, while navigating complex regional

dynamics and upholding its humanitarian commitments.

Keywords: Jordan, regional stability, Middle East politics, Syrian conflict, refugee

integration.

INTRODUCTION

In the heart of the Middle East, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan stands as a testament to

resilience and strategic diplomacy in a region beset by turmoil. Its stability, a beacon of relative

calm amidst the storm of regional conflict, has not been without cost, nor has it been a simple

feat. The title of this paper, "Balancing Acts: Jordan’s Stability Amidst Regional Conflict and

Humanitarian Response," encapsulates the delicate equilibrium that Jordan navigates as it

contends with multifaceted challenges that test its political acumen, social cohesion, economic

resilience, and humanitarian commitments.

Jordan's narrative in recent years is inextricably linked to the seismic events that have shaken

the Arab world. Jordan hosts the second-highest share of refugees per capita in the world.

Amidst Jordan’s population of 11 million, more than 660,000 registered Syrian refugees have

sought shelter. However, the true number that includes unregistered Syrians jumps to1.3

million. [1]This massive demographic shift has not only put pressure on Jordan's infrastructure

and public services, but it has also raised questions about the sustainability of its social and

economic systems.

This paper sets out to explore the intricate mosaic of Jordan's stability, examining the ways in

which the country has managed internal pressures while simultaneously navigating the

complexities of regional politics. It delves into the realms of governance, where Jordan's policy

Page 2 of 9

194

Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal (ASSRJ) Vol. 10, Issue 11, November-2023

Services for Science and Education – United Kingdom

responses reflect both an acute awareness of internal dynamics and a nuanced approach to

international diplomacy. In the social domain, it assesses the fabric of Jordanian society,

intricately woven with threads of hospitality and resilience, now interlaced with the patterns

of refugee integration and community relations.

Economically, the Kingdom has had to adapt and innovate, grappling with the dual challenge of

maintaining growth and addressing the needs imposed by a burgeoning population. Jordan's

humanitarian response, lauded yet laden with challenges, presents a case study in balancing

national interests with international obligations. Meanwhile, its defense strategies and

resource management tactics speak to a broader narrative of environmental and geopolitical

awareness. This paper chronicles the ways in which Jordan, through a combination of prudent

policy-making and robust international partnerships, has striven to maintain a semblance of

stability. It is a tale of a nation that, despite facing the headwinds of regional strife and the

weight of its humanitarian ethos, strives to chart a course toward a sustainable and stable

future.

THE KEY TO JORDAN’S STABILITY

In the shadow of upheaval, Jordan's political stability and governance have been put to the test.

The Hashemite leadership, under the stewardship of King Abdullah II, has displayed a

remarkable degree of adaptability and foresight in responding to a myriad of challenges.

Jordan's governance structures, rooted in a constitutional monarchy that balances the powers

of the monarch with a parliamentary system, have navigated the complex political

reverberations of regional conflicts and the refugee crisis with a measured approach. [2] This

narrative examines the country's leadership and policy responses in the face of such profound

challenges and the efforts to maintain internal security while upholding civil liberties.

Leadership and Policy Responses

The Jordanian monarchy has historically played a pivotal role in shaping the nation's policy

direction, acting as a mediator between different political factions and ensuring a stable

government. Faced with the regional instability, King Abdullah and his government have

employed a combination of diplomatic engagement and policy reform.[3] The influx of refugees

has required a recalibration of national priorities, leading to the development of the Jordan

Response Plan (JRP) to the Syria Crisis. This comprehensive plan, collaboratively designed with

international partners, outlined sector-specific strategies for dealing with the refugee crisis

while ensuring the development needs of Jordanians are not sidestepped. [4] Policy responses

have also included legislative amendments aimed at improving the business environment to

stimulate economic growth and foreign investment, seen as crucial in a country grappling with

increased fiscal demands. Furthermore, Jordan has worked closely with international financial

institutions, such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF), to implement structural reforms

and secure financial assistance, [5] underscoring the leadership's proactive stance in economic

stewardship during these testing times.

Maintaining Internal Security

The balancing act of maintaining internal security in the midst of regional instability and an

expanded population has been a particularly delicate endeavor. Jordan's security forces have

been vigilant in safeguarding the nation against spillover from conflicts in neighboring

territories, particularly those that could breed extremism within its own borders. The General

Page 3 of 9

195

Gabbay, S. M. (2023). Balancing Acts: Jordan’s Remarkable Stability Amidst Regional Conflict and Humanitarian Response. Advances in Social

Sciences Research Journal, 10(11). 193-201.

URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.14738/assrj.1011.15899

Intelligence Directorate (GID), along with the military and police forces, have been central in

these efforts, employing intelligence-led initiatives to thwart potential threats. [6]

Yet, the security apparatus has also been conscious of the need to preserve civil liberties.

Despite the occasional use of heightened security measures, such as expanded surveillance and

strict border controls, the government has made efforts to maintain a level of openness and

respect for human rights, cognizant that heavy-handed tactics could breed resentment and

instability. The state security courts and their role in this period have been controversial [7]

prompting national and international discussions about the need for judicial reform to balance

the imperatives of security and rights. [8]

Institutionally, the government has also sought to engage refugee communities directly,

incorporating their leaders into dialogue and decision-making processes to ensure that the

refugee population does not become disenfranchised. This inclusion is part of a broader

strategy to foster social harmony and prevent the rise of radicalism that often takes root in the

soil of discontent and isolation.

Jordan's response to the compound pressures of regional conflict and the subsequent

humanitarian exigencies showcases the government's commitment to stability, characterized

by adaptive policymaking, careful economic management, and a nuanced approach to internal

security. This equilibrium, though constantly tested, is maintained through a combination of

strategic governance, international cooperation, and a steadfast commitment to national

cohesion.

SOCIAL STABILITY AND COHESION

Jordan’s approach to cultural integration and community relations amidst the influx of refugees

is a testament to its social resilience and commitment to regional solidarity. The Hashemite

Kingdom, recognizing the potential long-term nature of the refugee situation, has embarked on

a series of social programs and policies designed to facilitate the integration of refugees into

the fabric of Jordanian society, while also ensuring the preservation of its own cultural identity

and social cohesion.

Cultural Integration

At the heart of Jordan’s integration efforts is the recognition that the refugee population—

primarily Syrians, but also Iraqis, Yemenis, and Palestinians—bring with them a mosaic of

cultural practices, traditions, and skills. The government, in partnership with international

NGOs and aid organizations, has initiated education and vocational training programs aimed at

not only providing necessary skills to the refugees but also facilitating cultural exchanges. For

instance, the establishment of community centers provides spaces where cultural

understanding and exchange can take place, promoting a sense of belonging among refugees.

[9] Educational initiatives have been particularly pivotal, with the Jordanian Ministry of

Education opening public schools to Syrian children. This move is not merely an act of charity;

it is a strategic endeavor to integrate the younger generation into the society in which they may

spend a significant part of their lives. By incorporating refugee children into the national

education system, Jordan is fostering early cultural integration and mitigating the risks

associated with a lost generation that could result from prolonged displacement.

Page 4 of 9

196

Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal (ASSRJ) Vol. 10, Issue 11, November-2023

Services for Science and Education – United Kingdom

Community Relations

The social fabric of Jordanian towns and cities has been stretched by the demands of hosting a

large refugee population. Despite these challenges, the nation has demonstrated an impressive

level of social unity and cohesion. Through public awareness campaigns and community

engagement programs, Jordan has worked to counteract any xenophobic tendencies and to

educate its citizens about the plight of the refugees.

Local governments have been at the core of fostering community relations, often facilitating

dialogues between Jordanian residents and refugee communities. By promoting understanding

and collaboration in addressing common community issues-such as shared resources,

employment, and local governance-Jordan is actively working to prevent the segregation of

refugees and the potential for conflict.

The presence of refugees has also had a more unexpected positive impact on community

relations in some Jordanian towns. The new demand for goods and services provided by the

refugee population has offered economic opportunities for local businesses, and in some cases,

refugees have initiated their own enterprises, contributing to local economies and fostering

economic interdependence. [10]

One such example of refugee entrepreneurship is evident in the Zaatari refugee camp in

northern Jordan, home to some 80,000 displaced Syrians. The so-named Champs Elysees Street

traversing the middle of the camp is a large, commercial market where thousands of Syrians

gather from early in the morning to late at night to shop and eat. [10]Syrian restaurants, quality

Syrian sweets shops, barbers, bridal shops, shoemakers, clothing stores of every description,

cell phone stores, home goods and many other businesses thrive. Zaatari camp continues to

make a large economic impact on the economy both inside and outside its borders. In parallel,

Jordan has made considerable efforts to include refugees in national health and social

protection programs ensuring they have access to essential services. This inclusion not only

aids the refugees but also prevents the deterioration of public opinion against them due to fears

of resource depletion. [11] Jordan’s strategic approach to cultural integration and community

relations has required delicate navigation-balancing empathy with pragmatism, and generosity

with sustainability. The Kingdom’s policies and initiatives serve not just as a buffer against the

social strain of such a substantial refugee influx, but also as a proactive blueprint for fostering

a cohesive society in the face of unprecedented demographic change. Through these measures,

Jordan is not only providing a sanctuary for those fleeing conflict but also reinforcing the

stability and harmony of its own communities.

HUMANITARIAN CHALLENGES AND CONSTRAINTS

Jordan’s humanitarian stance in welcoming refugees is not devoid of complications. The

Kingdom's social stability and cohesion face continuous tests under the weight of economic

constraints, pressures on healthcare services, and security concerns, including the threat of

terrorism.

Economic Strain

As one would expect, the large influx of refugees has placed a considerable burden on Jordan’s

economy. With already limited natural resources, particularly water, the country has had to

stretch its capacities to meet the additional demand. [12]

Page 5 of 9

197

Gabbay, S. M. (2023). Balancing Acts: Jordan’s Remarkable Stability Amidst Regional Conflict and Humanitarian Response. Advances in Social

Sciences Research Journal, 10(11). 193-201.

URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.14738/assrj.1011.15899

Employment is another critical area of concern; while refugees contribute to the labor market,

their presence also increases competition for jobs, which can lead to tensions with the local

population and potentially depress wages. The government has sought to address these

economic challenges by working with international donors and implementing economic

reforms. However, the sheer scale of the refugee population—amounting to a significant

percentage of Jordan’s own population—means that even with international aid, the economic

impact is profound, affecting national budget allocations and requiring substantial

international financial support.

Healthcare System

Jordan's healthcare system, known for its quality in the region, has been significantly pressured

by the necessity to serve hundreds of thousands more people. The increased demand for

medical services has led to longer waiting times, shortages of medical supplies, and increased

workloads for healthcare professionals, which inevitably affects the quality of care for all

residents, not only refugees. [13]

The government, alongside international organizations, has endeavored to expand and enhance

healthcare services, establishing special clinics and health centers for refugees. Nevertheless,

these measures have not entirely mitigated the impact on the healthcare system, and there are

still gaps in meeting both the healthcare needs of refugees and the increased demands on the

system from the host population.

Security and Terrorism

The threat of terrorism has been a critical concern for Jordan, given its proximity to conflict

zones and its own population, including Muslim Brotherhood. [6] The potential for

radicalization within refugee populations is an issue taken seriously by Jordanian security

services, which struggle to strike a balance between open-door hospitality and vigilant security

measures. Jordan has combated this threat through stringent border controls and sophisticated

intelligence operations. The security forces work to monitor and counteract extremist

ideologies, ensuring that refugee camps and communities do not become breeding grounds for

terrorism. The Kingdom’s counterterrorism approach is multifaceted, including community

policing, public engagement campaigns aimed at countering violent extremism, and

participation in international security coalitions.

HUMANITARIAN CHALLENGES AND CONSTRAINTS

International Aid Dynamics

Jordan’s humanitarian response to the refugee influx has been heavily reliant on international

aid. The management and negotiation of this aid are critical, as it must not only address the

immediate needs of refugees but also sustain the country’s overall stability. The government

has become adept at navigating the complex landscape of international aid, working closely

with the United Nations, various non-governmental organizations, and bilateral partners to

secure necessary funding and resources. Jordan has put forth considerable effort to ensure that

international aid aligns with its national priorities and does not undermine its economic and

social structures. The Jordan Response Plan to the Syrian crisis is an example of how the

Kingdom has successfully lobbied for a coordinated and effective aid strategy that takes into

account its developmental goals alongside immediate humanitarian needs. [14]