Jordan A country on the road to reform

For King Abdullah II of Jordan, the stability of his country and the region are top priorities. For that reason he takes a mediatory role and is open to reform, in recent years replacing the government several times in the face of continuing criticism of its policies.

In early 2011, the wave of protests during what became known as the Arab Spring also spread to Jordan. Thousands of Jordanians demonstrated against high unemployment, rising prices and corruption, and demanded more political and social rights. Protesters did not, however, demand the overthrow of the regime. The king is recognised by all groups within society.

In response to the protests, King Abdullah introduced constitutional reforms in 2011 and granted parliament more powers. The most recent parliamentary elections were held in September 2016.

Renewed protests

Early June 2018 saw a renewed wave of protests in reaction to the government's austerity policies and escalating living costs. Prime Minister Hani al-Mulki resigned his post and was succeeded by Omar Razzaz. Razzaz now faces the difficult task of leading the country out of its current economic crisis while at the same time avoiding social unrest.

The civil war in neighbouring Syria, in particular, is presenting great challenges to Jordan. With its population of 9.5 million, Jordan has already taken in more than 670,000 Syrian refugees, according to United Nations statistics (as at October 2018). Many Jordanian communities are struggling to provide adequate water, energy, health services and education.

Cooperation with Germany

Political relations between Jordan and Germany are close and amicable. Jordan is one of the partner countries that Germany supports as part of thematic and regional programmes. Cooperation is focused on the priority areas of water, education, technical and vocational education and training and support for refugees and their host communities.

Germany is the second largest donor to the country, after the United States. In 2018, the BMZ provided more than 290 million euros.