Strengthening the resilience of vulnerable groups in Jordan

Context

Since its independence in 1946, Jordan has been a safe haven for refugees from the Palestinian Territories, Syria, and other countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. As a result, its population has increased from around 500,000 to more than 11.5 million people in only 78 years. With scarce resources and structural challenges, compounded by a significant influx of refugees, such a high population increase can lead to socio-economic frustrations. Especially in remote areas, social friction and economic disparities threaten to trigger tensions between individuals and groups.

Objective

Social cohesion within the population of Jordan is enhanced by supporting people to participate in processes of social change to deal with tensions and to resolve conflicts peacefully.

Approach

Change processes, conflict transformation, and resolution measures developed by local partner organisations and the programme contribute to enhancing the resilience of vulnerable groups, especially women and youth in refugee and host communities.

Youth-friendly methods including performing arts, dialogue, neighbourhood mapping, sports, life skills, and even robotics are used for conflict transformation. Safe spaces, such as youth centres and non-formal as well as informal learning environments, offer opportunities for youth to meet and exchange perspectives.

Disadvantaged youth are encouraged to express themselves creatively and participate in change processes. Furthermore, community trust-building measures and various dialogue methods help transform tensions into positive change.

Last update: March 2024