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16 April 2024
UN Resident Coordinator’s Remarks at the Opening of the 12th Edition of Women's Film Week 2024
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15 April 2024
UN Resident Coordinator Address to Donors and Partners at UNRWA's Emergency Appeal Event
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04 April 2024
A New dawn in Zaatari: how informed family planning transformed Aisha's life amidst hardship
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The Sustainable Development Goals in Jordan
The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Jordan:
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11 March 2024
Women in Jordan at the Forefront: Real Stories of Empowerment and Progress on International Women's Day
This International Women's Day, we celebrate the indefatigable spirit of women across various fields who have transformed challenges into steppingstones for innovation, leadership, and change. Regardless of the arena—be it environmental sustainability, skill development, or social advocacy—women in Jordan are leading the charge, showcasing that with resilience, creativity, and dedication, they can not only influence change on an individual and collective level but also inspire those around them. Today, we share the stories of remarkable women whose paths, though fraught with obstacles, illuminate the power of support and self-belief. Noor: The entrepreneur bringing financial services to her community in the Wadi Rum desertIn a remote village surrounded by the vast, desert landscape of Wadi Rum, 25-year-old Noor has used her entrepreneurial and leadership skills to start her own microbusiness; bringing much-needed financial services to her community. Her innovative business idea to bring electronic payments to her village came to life as part of UNICEF and partner Dar Abu Abdullah’s Economic Leadership and Empowerment programme. The programme was designed to bring new opportunities to young people in the south of Jordan, especially young women.Through her microbusiness, residents of the village can, for the first time, pay for goods and services electronically, without the use of cheques or cash. Noor uses the national E-payment platform to provide the service, charging a small fee. The service has transformed the lives of her neighbours who previously had to drive long distances to the nearest bank. “A woman can be successful and improve her standing in the community through building her skills, being ambitious and finding a job that gives her independence,” explained Noor on the importance of such initiatives for young women living in vulnerable areas.The programme, part of UNICEF’s Learning to Earning initiative, gives young people training in leadership skills, including problem solving and effective teamwork, as well as project design, work plan development, financial management, monitoring and quality assurance. After training, young people are encouraged to practice their skills through community initiatives and, finally, a feasibility study and a comprehensive work plan is developed for their microbusiness. Young people are then granted seed funding to implement their entrepreneurial ideas.Noor wants to see more young women, like her, start their own businesses. “Young people around here have ideas, like everywhere, but there tends not to be many opportunities for them,” she said. “We need more initiatives like this to generate our own income and the youth of Jordan need to focus more attention on gaining the right skills to match the needs of our economy.”Not only has the programme brought Noor financial independence and the ability to support her family but her confidence has grown exponentially. One change she has noticed: “People in my village look at me differently now.” She hopes that she can be a role model for positive change. “Women should not be stopped from being leaders,” concluded Noor. “It is everyone’s responsibility to eliminate the barriers that hinder girls from reaching their full potential. Achieving this is in the interest of everyone.” Sanaa Mohammad: Crafting a Greener Future In Jordan, amidst the burgeoning discourse on environmental sustainability and innovation, Sanaa Mohammad's narrative unfolds—a testament to the power of visionary thinking and environmental stewardship in the realm of fashion. Her journey from an aspiring designer to a trailblazer in sustainable fashion is an illustration of how creativity, when aligned with the cause of environmental conservation, can pave the way for significant societal contributions and industry transformation.Sanaa's venture began with a simple yet profound realization of the excessive textile waste plaguing our planet. Armed with a passion for design and commitment to making a difference, she set her sights on transforming discarded denim and other fabrics into something beautiful and valuable. This was not merely a project but a mission to introduce a sustainable ethos into the fashion industry.The turning point in her journey came through a symbiotic partnership with a local factory, a collaboration that breathed life into her innovative designs. This endeavor, however, was not just a solitary pursuit but was significantly bolstered by the support through UNIDO’ Khayt Fashion Design Competition, which recognized the potential of her initiatives to contribute to Jordan's fashion industry's growth and sustainability.Khayt initiative brings together emerging Jordanian designers and manufacturers with the aim of supporting local designers and helping manufacturers create new products for international markets. The initiative has helped improve their skills, encouraged networking, and assisted in creating job opportunities, thus enabling them to support their families. "In adversity, I found potential," she states. Her approach went beyond merely crafting garments; it was about redefining fashion's future, laying the groundwork for a sustainable paradigm that champions environmental stewardship while fostering economic development.Today, Sanaa stands as a pioneer, inspiring others to challenge conventions and embrace sustainable practices within the fashion industry. Her work serves as a compelling call to action, urging us to rethink how we view waste and sustainability in fashion. Through her creativity, perseverance, and dedication, Sanaa Mohammad is not just creating fashion; she is spearheading a movement towards a more sustainable and prosperous future, proving that with innovation and commitment, transforming the fabric of the fashion industry is not just possible—it's imperative. Azhar Riyati: Weaving Success Through Skill and Determination Azhar Riyati's narrative doesn't just start; it blossoms within the nurturing environment of the UN Women’s Oasis Centre. Initially engulfed by apprehensions about her ability to balance work and family responsibilities, Azhar found herself at a crossroads. "I was afraid I wouldn't do a good job," she confessed, highlighting the internal struggle many women face when stepping into new roles, especially after being confined to domestic spaces.However, the Oasis Centre, more than just a training facility, emerged as a beacon of hope and transformation for Azhar. Here, amidst threads and fabrics, Azhar wove her new identity, transitioning from a homemaker to a harbinger of change. The tailoring skills she honed did more than just enable her to support her family; they unveiled her innate leadership and teaching abilities, marking her evolution into a trainer within the very program that redefined her life.The oasis model have significantly expanded their influence, now boasting 22 centers that have meaningfully empowered more than 30,000 people, including Jordanian and Syrian refugee women, including a significant number who have disabilities. These centres are acclaimed for fostering safe and inclusive environments, offering vital cash-for-work"I recommended the programme for many women I know, so they can benefit as much as I did," Azhar shares, encapsulating the ripple effect of empowerment. Her journey from uncertainty to economic independence and confidence is a testimony to the transformative power of skill development and community support found at the Oasis Centres.Today, Azhar stands as one of the influencing figures in her community, empowering other women through the art of tailoring. Her story is a vivid illustration of how investment in women's skills and confidence can unlock doors to leadership and economic empowerment, echoing the global call to 'Accelerate Progress'. Nour Mohammad: A Lens of Resilience - Transforming Adversity into Advocacy Nour's journey, etched with resilience and transformation, weaves through the tapestry of her life's most challenging and triumphant moments. Her story begins with a young girl leaving Syria, cradling dreams amidst the ruins of her home, seeking solace and safety in Jordan's Zaatari camp. The mixed emotions of reunion and loss marked her arrival, but it was her pursuit of education that shone brightly against the backdrop of displacement. Her determination was her compass, guiding her through the mire of early marriage—a decision wrapped in the innocence of youthful dreams yet unfolding into a stark reality far removed from her aspirations.Marriage thrust Nour into a realm of responsibilities and expectations, a stark departure from the life she envisioned. Trapped within the confines of a new household, her spirit yearned for freedom, an escape from the oppressive weight of obedience and servitude. The subsequent years unfurled challenges and isolation, with her husband's decisions only deepening her despair. Yet, it was in her deepest troughs of sorrow that Nour's resilience flickered, refusing to be extinguished.Choosing freedom over confinement, Nour embarked on a solitary path, leaving behind a life that sought to diminish her light. Her journey led her to the Quest Scope youth center, supported by the United Nations Population Fund, where she discovered a community that embraced her. Here, Nour found her voice and purpose through training sessions that broadened her horizons and ignited her passion for photography. The camera became her tool of empowerment, a lens through which she could capture the essence of her experiences and the plights of those around her. It was a medium for advocacy, a way to spotlight the challenges women face, particularly the perils of early marriage.Photography transcended being merely a profession for Nour; it became her "alternative angle," a means to view and portray the world with newfound clarity and empathy. At 24, Nour's journey from a refugee child to an advocate for women's rights is a testament to her indomitable spirit. Her advocacy extends beyond her camera, as she passionately counsels against early marriage, urging girls and parents alike to envision a future defined by dreams and aspirations, not societal chains. *This story is a compilation of narratives contributed by UNICEF, UNIDO, UN Women, UNFPA.
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14 June 2021
مبادرة "فيريفايد" Verified
لن نتمكّن من احتواء الفيروس وآثاره إلا إذا أُتيحت لكل شخص إمكانية الوصول إلى معلومات دقيقة وموثوق بها. إنّ Verified هي مبادرة أطلقتها الأمم المتحدة للتصدّي للمعلومات غير الدقيقة والكاذبة من خلال توفير محتوى يمكن الوثوق به: معلومات منقذة للحياة ونصائح قائمة على وقائع وقصص تروي أفضل إبداعات الإنسان.
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04 April 2024
A New dawn in Zaatari: how informed family planning transformed Aisha's life amidst hardship
In the midst of the Zaatari camp's seemingly endless rows of prefabricated caravans in Jordan, Aisha's story stands out as a testament to the power of resilience, and the pursuit of a better life. At 41 years old, she has faced hardships that most of us cannot imagine.Aisha and her six children arrived in Jordan in 2013, fleeing the conflict in Syria. Of her children, three were born with physical disabilities, adding an extra layer of challenge to her already trying situation. She recounts, "Note that in Syria, I used to live in a tent, and when we came to the camp, I lived in a tent as well. Even daily life was difficult at that time, as toilets were shared in the camp, and I had difficulty getting my children to the toilets."Her life took an unexpected turn when she became pregnant with her seventh child while in the camp. Fear gripped Aisha as she worried that her newborn might also have a disability. Nights were sleepless, filled with prayers for a healthy child. She reflects, "Sometimes I would not sleep at night for fear that the child would have a disability, and I would tell myself that my responsibilities were already great, and I would not lack more."Aisha's unintended pregnancy was the result of her lack of knowledge about family planning methods. Fortunately, during her pregnancy, she began visiting the sexual and reproductive health clinic in the Zaatari camp. There, she shared her concerns about her children with disabilities, sparking the interest of the clinic's staff. They were determined to ensure the health of both Aisha and her unborn child. She was transferred to a clinic outside the camp for further examinations and 3D images, which confirmed the safety and health of the fetus.The day arrived, and Aisha gave birth in the sexual and reproductive health clinic in the camp. Her child was born healthy, a sigh of relief for the anxious mother. Post-natal care was provided to ensure the well-being of both the mother and her child.Back in Syria, family planning was a foreign concept for Aisha and her husband, leading to another unintended pregnancy three years later. Similar tests and precautions were taken, ultimately resulting in the birth of a healthy baby boy.However, Aisha realized that even with healthy children, the responsibility of raising eight children was immense. It was at the sexual and reproductive health clinic that Aisha received guidance on family planning. For seven years, she followed the clinic's advice, and no unintended pregnancies occurred during that time.But the clinic's support extended beyond medical care. They recognized Aisha's need for psycho-social support services, as she was suffering under the weight of her extensive responsibilities at home and towards her family."My advice to every woman who is married or about to get married is to organize your family well, ensuring that your children receive their full rights of education, health, care, and full attention, instead of having a large number of children and neglecting them or not receiving the full care they deserve." Said AishaShe also cautions parents not to surrender to societal pressures that may lead to marrying their daughters at a young age. Aisha emphasizes that society itself will not show mercy when a child returns home divorced or, worse, loses her life due to early pregnancy and childbirth.Aisha's journey exemplifies the transformative impact of knowledge, choice, and support. Her story reminds us that even in the harshest conditions, determination and access to family planning can lead to a brighter future.EU Humanitarian Aid is the kind donor that supports the Reproductive Health Clinic as well as the Women & Girls Safe Space in Zaatari Camp.
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04 April 2024
Hope and healing in Zaatari: the lifeline of UNFPA's Sexual and Reproductive Health Clinic for Syrian Refugees
In the heart of the Zaatari refugee camp, a symbol of resilience and compassion shines bright. The UNFPA-supported Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) Clinic, nestled within the camp, has been a beacon of hope, offering refuge, care, and support to the most vulnerable among Syrian refugees.Zaatari Camp OverviewSituated 10 kilometers east of Al-Mafraq in the Al-Mafraq Governorate of Jordan, Zaatari Camp has held the distinction of being the world's largest refugee camp for Syrian refugees. Its doors opened on July 28, 2012, in response to the Syrian Civil War. By February 16, 2022, the camp had become home to more than 83,000 individuals. Under the joint administration of the Syrian Refugee Affairs Directorate (SRAD) and the UNHCR, the camp transformed from a collection of tents into a thriving city. UNFPA Presence in the CampSince the camp's inception, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has been at the forefront of humanitarian efforts in Zaatari. UNFPA's core focus areas encompass Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH), Gender-Based Violence (GBV), and Adolescents and Youth. Collaborating with national and international partners, UNFPA was dedicated to delivering life-saving services to Syrian refugees while maintaining coordination among its partners.UNFPA's mission revolved around addressing the reproductive health needs of women and girls. In partnership with the Jordan Health Aid Society (JHAS), its implementing partner, UNFPA provided comprehensive reproductive health services and promoted reproductive rights through four established SRH clinics, including the camp's sole maternity clinic, offering services around the clock.These clinics have played a vital role in delivering a broad spectrum of services, ensuring women, girls, and newborns access quality healthcare. Services included family planning methods, antenatal care, postnatal care, post-abortion care, UTI and STI management and treatment, anemia screening and treatment, and the detection and prevention of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV). They also offered Clinical Management of rape (CMR) services, prevention and management of STIs and HIV, detection and prevention of reproductive cancers (breast and cervical cancer), individual and couple counseling, counseling and services for infertility, sexual health information, education, and counseling, SRHR awareness sessions, and vaccinations for newborns.Results AchievedUNFPA's unwavering commitment to providing essential sexual and reproductive health services in Zaatari Camp yielded remarkable results. The SRH clinic's facilitation of safe deliveries stands out as a vital service, overseeing 17,268 safe deliveries within the camp as of 30 October, 2023. Deliveries with complications or requiring Caesarean sections were promptly referred to external referral hospitals, ensuring the safety of mothers and newborns.In a crisis setting, family planning has been vital, and UNFPA-supported clinic provides an average of 9,080 family planning services annually. This allows beneficiaries to access a range of family planning methods, empowering them with choice and control over their reproductive health.Antenatal and postnatal care have been cornerstones of maternal and neonatal health. UNFPA's dedicated efforts have yielded a monthly provision of more than 1,600 antenatal services, ensuring the facilitation of healthy pregnancies and safe deliveries. Furthermore, women receive postnatal benefits, with support extending into the critical postpartum period. Addressing common health concerns in camp settings, UNFPA clinics screens an average of 4000 women for anemia every year and provided appropriate treatment. Moreover, our beneficiaries receive treatment for infections, contributing to their overall well-being.These results underscore the vital role that UNFPA plays in addressing the healthcare needs of the vulnerable population in Zaatari Camp, making a tangible difference in the lives of those enduring the hardships of displacement.Hope Amidst AdversityAddressing common health concerns in camp settings, UNFPA clinics screens an average of 4,000 women for anemia every year and provides appropriate treatment. Moreover, our beneficiaries receive treatment for infections, contributing to their overall well-being. In total, the UNFPA-supported clinic offers an average of 72,000 diverse services to Syrian refugees each year.
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07 March 2024
International Women’s Day 2024: A Path Forward
Three decades ago, an unprecedented assembly of 17,000 representatives from 189 governments and 30,000 activists gathered in Beijing, united by a singular mission to champion gender equality and empower all women, everywhere. Today, we stand at a juncture, reflecting on the progress made and the path that lies ahead.As we observe International Women's Day this 8th of March, it is crucial to reassess the promises made in Beijing, especially as we witness unfolding challenges that test our faith in the global commitment to women's rights.Jordan's participation in the Beijing Conference, led by Her Royal Highness Princess Basma Bint Talal, epitomized the country's dedication to the cause of women's empowerment. The Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action set forth an ambitious agenda, envisioning a world where every woman and girl could exercise her freedoms and choices, and realize all her rights, such as to live free from violence to access education, to participate in decision making and to earn equal pay for equal rights.Yet, the realities of today underscore the complexities of our global journey towards gender equality.While significant strides in gender equality have been made around the world, with hundreds of millions more girls attending schools globally and a dramatic decrease in women’s maternal mortality over the past 30 years, the pace of change towards fulfilling the commitments made in Beijing remains painstakingly slow. Estimates suggesting that it could take centuries to close the global gender gap highlight the entrenched nature of these double standards, underscoring the urgency for action.Progress in education and leadership roles, the widespread ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and the widespread endorsement of the Beijing Platform for Action signal a global consensus on the importance of women's rights. Yet, the legal and societal changes required to realize these commitments fully are lagging.The Secretary-General of the United Nations, in his message for International Women’s Day, poignantly noted, “Billions of women and girls face marginalization, injustice, and discrimination, as millennia of male domination continue to shape societies.” This statement encapsulates the global struggle for gender equality, emphasizing the systemic barriers that persist. The ongoing tragedy in Gaza, in which over 9,000 Palestinian women have been killed, reveals with indisputable clarity the depths of such inequalities. The carnage in Gaza and the failure of States to create a world where all humans are equal – regardless of gender, religion, or nationality – are challenging belief in the effectiveness of the very international laws and mechanisms designed to protect human rights. Some even call for an abandonment of those frameworks. Yet is not the frameworks themselves that are inadequate or biased. It is rather the deficiencies in their application and in accountability that bring us to such terrible suffering as we see in Gaza.These persistent challenges and inequalities bring us to an essential question: How do we best move forward?The answer lies in the reaffirmation of our collective belief and commitment to the universality of human rights, including women’s rights, and the renewing of multilateralism for the years to come. In September, world leaders will gather together in New York at a Summit for the Future to do just this: they will forge a new international consensus on how we deliver a better present and safeguard the future. This once-in-a-generation opportunity serves as a moment to mend eroded trust and demonstrate that international cooperation can effectively tackle current challenges as well as those that have emerged in recent years or may yet be over the horizon. Jordan’s voice at this Summit will be an important contribution towards designing a better future for the region and the world. The answer also lies in the resilience of people and progress of nations like Jordan, which, amidst adversity, continues to champion the principles of international law and human rights.Jordan has achieved significant progress in terms of women's rights, achieving gender parity in primary education, and having some of the highest levels of female enrollment in secondary and higher education in the region and the world. However, challenges remain, including in increasing women's participation in politics and the workforce. The National Strategy for Women (2020-2025) and Jordan's commitment to placing women's participation at the center of its modernization agenda provide a solid foundation for further progress.As we look towards the Beijing + 30 Review process and the United Nations Summit of the future, Jordan's role in shaping the global agenda for gender equality is crucial. These platforms offer unique opportunities to address the double standards in women's rights and envision a future where gender equality is a reality for all women, everywhere.The agencies, funds and programmes of the United Nations in Jordan are fully dedicated to strengthening our collaboration with the Government, civil society, private sector and other partners in advancing women’s rights within the country, as well as to supporting the Kingdom’s advocacy for greater protection and equality for women in Gaza, the broader region and the world.This International Women's Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to the promises of the Beijing Platform for Action, inspired by the achievements and resilience of nations like Jordan, ensuring that gender equality becomes a lived reality for every woman and girl around the world.
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18 January 2024
Resilience beyond reductions: Sharqawi's family hope amidst challenges
Sharqawi's journey unfolds alongside his 12 family members, a narrative echoing the resilience of Syrian refugees facing the challenges of displacement since early 2013 in the Zaatari camp. As a testament to evolving support, Sharqawi reflects on the inception of WFP assistance as a lifeline that began with distributing ready-to-eat meals and transformed into monthly cash assistance, empowering families to choose and purchase preferred food items, including freshly baked bread from WFP-contracted shops.
Amidst the recent reductions in WFP's monthly food assistance in August 2023 due to severe funding shortages, Sharqawi's family faces a pivotal challenge. Previously capable of procuring meat and chickens, they now navigate a landscape of limited resources, accumulating debt to meet basic necessities.
Community Leadership: Shaqawi's Role as a "Social Counselor"
Sharqawi, drawing from his background in Syrian agriculture, sought employment to supplement the family's income. While he encountered challenges in securing consistent work, he did manage to work for a few weeks during the summer in agricultural lands near the camp. However, winter poses substantial difficulties for finding employment.
Despite facing challenges in finding steady work, he embraced a vital role within the community, earning an unofficial title where people have known him as a "social counsellor" for mediating conflicts—a role he takes pride in, though unpaid. "I may not have monetary value to offer, but being known as a 'social counselor' within my community brings me immense pride," Sharqawi said. "It makes me feel useful and not entirely burdened by our circumstances."
Fears and Hopes: A Father's Concern for the Future
The weight of responsibility on Sharqawi's shoulders intensifies during harsh winters, where daily life demands more in terms of food, heating, and clothing. Due to his financial difficulties, he reluctantly borrows money from neighbours out of a fear that he won't be able to pay it back, which feeds an uncertain cycle.
"I fear falling ill one day and leaving my family without support," Sharqawi shares. "Organizations like WFP are crucial for our sustenance." Grappling with reduced assistance, his biggest dream is now a humble yet profound one: "to keep feeding my children."
The altered landscape of their daily lives becomes evident in their food intake and the sacrifices made to ensure the children are adequately fed. The assistance reduction compelled Sharqawi to withdraw two of his children from school, engaging in odd jobs within the camp to supplement the family's income.
As of August 2023, WFP's monthly cash assistance to Syrian refugees in camps has faced unprecedented reductions due to funding shortfalls. Nevertheless, despite the difficulties, Sharqawi perseveres thanks to donors like KSrelief, whose consistent donations act as a lifeline for the people of the camp.
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21 December 2023
Embracing hope amidst hardship: Sarwa's resilience in Zaatari Camp
Sarwa's days in the Zaatari camp unfold with a blend of resilience and uncertainty. As a single mother raising two children amidst a sprawling expanse of caravans, her life mirrors the struggles faced by many other Syrian refugees living in the camp.
The Weight of Reduced Assistance
Reflecting on the past, Sarwa recalls a time when assistance provided more than just the basics for survival. "We had choices," she reminisces. "We could afford various foods. But today, we carefully pick essentials, hoping they will last until the next assistance arrives."
The recent reductions in WFP's monthly food assistance have cast a long shadow over Sarwa's family. "It's our main source of income," she says, her voice tinged with concern. "I live in constant fear of a message informing us that assistance might stop due to insufficient funding. Without it, survival feels impossible."
Education as a Beacon: Dreaming Beyond Dependency
The weight of her children's future is always present in Sarwa's thoughts. "Their education is my beacon of hope. I push through each day, ensuring they attend school, hoping that one day their degrees will lead them to a life where they won't have to depend on anyone."
However, the limitations are evident. "My heart breaks when they ask for fruits—a simple request, yet one I cannot fulfil," Sarwa shares. "They long for an apple or a banana to carry in their school bags, but we have none to give."
A Glimmer of Opportunity: Seeking Additional Work Beyond the Camp
Sarwa leaves the camp whenever a chance arises for her to work as a daily labourer on agricultural lands near the camp. This additional work offers a glimmer of hope, although temporary, as she strives to supplement the family's income.
The harsh winters bring a new set of challenges. "We struggle to keep warm, expenses skyrocket, and hunger becomes a constant companion. We're confined to our caravans, trying to make two meals a day suffice for us all."
After living in the camp for over a decade, Sarwa is eager for change. "We wake up each day hoping for a positive shift, a glimpse of a better future," she says. "But despite the hardships, we've learned to adapt."
The Lifeline of Support: Gratitude for Sustained Assistance
Amidst the uncertainty, Sarwa emphasizes the importance of sustained support. "The recent reductions in assistance have hit us hard," she acknowledges. "But thanks to donors like KSrelief, there's still a glimmer of hope. Their ongoing support is a lifeline, reminding us that there's goodness in the world."
For Sarwa, endurance is key. "I hold onto hope that things will get better. We might be facing unimaginable challenges, but we've found resilience. We've learned to navigate this difficult journey, finding comfort in the safety this camp provides."
Her story, emblematic of many others in the Zaatari camp, speaks of perseverance in the face of challenges. As she continues to navigate the trials of daily life, Sarwa embodies the resilience of a mother striving to provide for her family despite the overwhelming odds.
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Press Release
25 March 2024
UN Secretary General Remarks at Wihdat Camp for Palestine Refugees
Assalam alaikum. I am extremely pleased to be here at the Wihdat Camp for Palestine refugees. We are at a centre dedicated to the wellbeing of Palestine refugees. So allow me to begin with an invitation to join me in a moment of silence in tribute to our United Nations colleagues and all others who have been killed in this conflict.Ladies and gentlemen, I am on a Ramadan solidarity visit to Jordan to meet Palestine refugees being served by UNRWA. UNRWA is a hot topic these days – but one fundamental thing is often being lost in the debate: people. The real people UNRWA serves -- and the real difference that UNRWA is making in their lives. Jordan is home to 2.4 million Palestine refugees, the largest number in the region.Today I heard some of their stories and saw a glimpse of UNRWA’s exceptional work.I had the privilege of visiting a health centre – where young mothers and their children are receiving high-quality primary health care, where labs perform state of the art medical tests, where a pharmacy is dispensing life-saving medication to patients at no charge. I sat in on science and English language classes at a girls school. I saw young women in a science lab learning and experimenting principles from Archimedes. I visited a class teaching English along with the values of human rights and conflict resolution. I also met with 6 truly inspiring young student parliamentarian leaders, including 3 students from Gaza. It was a heart-warming visit in heart-breaking times. Here in Jordan, but also in Syria, in Lebanon – and, of course, in the occupied West Bank and Gaza -- UNRWA is a lifeline of hope and dignity. Providing education for over half a million girls and boys;Health care for around 2 million people; Extending job opportunities and community and family support. And ensuring a social safety net for nearly half a million of the poorest Palestinians. Beyond and behind those facts, UNRWA is profoundly contributing in ways that can’t be measured on a graph -- advancing social cohesion, promoting stability, building peace. Imagine if all of this was taken away.It’s cruel and incomprehensible – especially as we honour the 171 women and men of UNRWA who have been killed in Gaza – the largest number of deaths of UN staff in our history. As our work continues in the face of big obstacles, I am determined to ensure that UNRWA abides by the values of the United Nations in all its actions. And so taking into account recent unacceptable events, an independent review is well underway to strengthen and improve UNRWA. I look forward to its recommendations. We must strive to keep the one-of-a-kind services that UNRWA provides flowing because that keeps hope flowing. In a darkening world, UNRWA is the one ray of light for millions of people.I see that hope here. Now more than ever, we must not take away that hope. You can count on me -- and I count on all of you to keep spreading that hope and potential of Palestine refugees here at the Widhat Camp and far beyond.Thank you. Shukran.
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Press Release
25 March 2024
UN Secretary General Press Remarks with the Foreign Minister of Jordan
Assalam alaikum. Foreign Minister Safady, thank you for your warm welcome. It’s good to be back in Jordan, especially at such a critical time for the region and our world. When I see Jordan, I see solidarity in action. I see it in the words and deeds of His Majesty King Abdullah – a global champion for peace. And I see it in the spirit of the people of Jordan and your enormous compassion towards those fleeing upheaval. Jordan is home to the largest number of Palestine refugees. I visited a camp earlier today and commend Jordan for your pivotal advocacy for the vital work of UNRWA. You have also opened your hearts and doors to many others, including refugees from Syria. And I urge the international community to support Jordan as it supports millions of people in need.Jordan’s spirit of solidarity is precisely what brings me here once again. I am on my annual solidarity mission during the holy month of Ramadan where I visit and fast with Muslim communities in distress.Ramadan is meant to be a period of celebration – but not this year. Hearts are heavy in the region – and indeed around the world – from the unprecedented and ongoing devastation in Gaza, as well as rising violence in the occupied West Bank.I commend Jordan for your support for de-escalation, including in East Jerusalem.And I salute Jordan for your relentless efforts to get humanitarian assistance into Gaza, including through the personal efforts and wisdom of King Abdullah. For my part, I will keep pushing for the removal of all obstacles to life-saving aid, for more access and more entry points. But we must face facts. There will be no sustainable humanitarian solution with an ongoing war as bloody as this. Let me repeat: nothing justifies the abhorrent October 7 attacks and hostage-taking by Hamas – and nothing justifies the collective punishment of the Palestinian people.The effective delivery of humanitarian aid requires the immediate delivery of a humanitarian ceasefire.The need is urgent. I was at the Rafah border crossing this weekend. I met with injured Palestinian civilians and heard directly from our frontline humanitarian colleagues.They are veterans of some of the worst humanitarian crises in recent decades. They have seen it all. And yet, without exception, they told me they have never seen anything as horrible as what is happening in Gaza today. The scale and speed of the death and destruction are on an entirely different level. And now starvation is bearing down on Palestinians in Gaza. There is a growing consciousness around the world that all of this must stop.The fighting must end now, the hostages must be released now, and we must not lose sight of the big picture.A lasting end to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict can only come through a two-State solution.Israelis must see their legitimate needs for security materialized, and Palestinians must see their legitimate aspirations for a fully independent, viable and sovereign State realized, in line with United Nations resolutions, international law and previous agreements.We know where the alternative would lead. To indefinitely prolonging a conflict that has become a major threat to global peace and security.To exacerbating polarization.To emboldening extremists everywhere. Those standing in the way of a two-state solution have an obligation to state clearly the alternative.How would the future look with such a large number of Palestinians inside without any real sense of freedom, rights and dignity? This would be inconceivable. The two-State solution is the only way to address the legitimate aspirations of both Israelis and Palestinians.I know it is easy to be cynical in today’s world. But that’s a luxury we cannot afford. Cynicism is a form of surrender to the prevailing assumptions of the moment. It is a refuge for those too weak, too narrow, too timid to imagine a better future. When things are difficult, we must try even harder. I will keep pushing for peace inspired by your example.Once again, thank you, Mr. Foreign Minister, and the government and people of Jordan for leading the way to solidarity and peace.
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Press Release
25 March 2024
Readout of the Secretary-General’s meeting with H.M. King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein, King of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
The Secretary-General met today in Amman with H.M. King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein, King of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. The Secretary-General and King Abdullah discussed the developments in Gaza and the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem and expressed concern over the regional spillover of the conflict. They further discussed support to UNRWA and other regional developments.The Secretary-General expressed deep appreciation of the role of King Abdullah in support of peace and humanitarian assistance for the population of Gaza.
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Press Release
14 March 2024
Jordan endorses Its first "Urban Policy", developed by UN-Habitat and Local Administration Ministry
On March 6th 2024, in a historic move considered the first of its kind, the Council of Ministers officially endorsed the first Jordan National Urban Policy (JNUP), developed by UN-Habitat in partnership with the Ministry of Local Administration. This endorsement follows the recommendations of the Services, Infrastructure, and Social Affairs Committee issued on February 26th, and the endorsement of the Steering Committee established within the framework of the regional project, "Sustainable, Inclusive and Evidence-based National Urban Policies in selected Arab States," implemented in four Arab countries by UN-Habitat.The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Local Administration, Tawfiq Kreishan, explained, "We in Jordan are in the process of establishing a national institutional framework, serving as a reference that guides all ministries, institutions, and agencies involved in urban development, municipal services, and public transportation. This aims to enhance our efforts towards integration, inclusivity, and enrichment of our functional tasks."Echoing this, the Mayor of the Greater Amman Municipality, Dr. Yousef Al-Shawarbeh, emphasized the significance of this policy, stating: "The Jordan National Urban Policy is considered a historical document, but it requires a national-level planning and regulatory law. For our nation and the future generations, it is our responsibility to adopt this policy and protect it through legislation that safeguards the rights of both the nation and its citizens."The National Programme Coordinator for the UN-Habitat Jordan Office, Deema Abu Thiab, explained that, at its core, the Jordan National Urban Policy seeks to facilitate transformative, productive, inclusive, and resilient urbanization for the long term. She added, “This endorsement marks a significant milestone in Jordan's journey towards sustainable urban development."The Jordan National Urban Policy (JNUP) represents a proactive approach towards establishing comprehensive national policies aimed at fostering environmentally sustainable, economically prosperous, socially inclusive, resilient, and well-connected cities and neighbourhoods. In addition to serving as a guiding framework for national urban development, the JNUP acts as an incubator for sectoral plans across various ministries, authorities, institutions, and special administrative regions, including the Greater Amman Municipality, Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority, the Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority, and the Jordan Valley Authority. The policy also engages relevant stakeholders such as universities, civil society organizations, private sector, donor organizations, and other actors.The JNUP is aligned with the recommendations set forth in the Economic Modernization Vision, the Public Administration Modernization Roadmap, and the Royal Committee Document for Political System Modernization.To view and download the Jordan National Urban Policy (JNUP), please click the link here
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Press Release
11 March 2024
UN-Habitat, ESCWA convene stakeholders for Water Climate Adaptation talks in Jordan"
In the context of the “Resilient Water Solutions Against Climate Change in Jordan and Lebanon” project, led by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) in partnership with the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA)), the first National Steering Committee meeting in Jordan for 2024 has concluded on 29 February, chaired by the Ministry of Environment of and gathering representatives from the Ministry of Water and Irrigation in Jordan, along with United Nations coordinators, local authorities, implementing partners and other relevant stakeholders. During the meeting, participants discussed the project’s workplan, current progress, achievements, and upcoming milestones. Major progress has been made since the last national steering committee for the project was convened in Jordan in June 2023. Since then, UNICEF Jordan has installed 37 greywater reuse systems in schools and other public entities. The Jordanian Hashemite Fund for Human Development (JOHUD), an executing entity for the project, has also identified beneficiary sites targeting vulnerable communities for the installation of 64 rooftop rainwater harvesting systems. Additionally, the consultant groups LDK and Royal Scientific Society in Jordan have finalized their assessment reports for developing climate-resilient urban master plans and setting up two urban observatories for both the municipalities of Irbid and Mafraq.“This is a strategic project that aims to better respond to the impacts of climate change and vulnerabilities in the context of the Syrian crisis in Jordan and Lebanon”, said Abdelmajid Khabour, representative of the Ministry of Environment in Jordan. “It raises the resilience of both displaced and host communities and enhances their ability to adapt to the negative effects of climate change in the most important and sensitive sectors affected by these changes, which are the agriculture and water sectors, and influences the economies of the local community,”, he added. In his remarks, Bassem Hassan, representative of the Ministry of Water and Irrigation in Jordan, highlighted the ministry's team great efforts to follow up on the project. “One of the greatest components and lessons we learned through this project is how to be resilient, flexible and credible”, he said.For her part, Deema Abu Thiab, National Programme Coordinator of UN-Habitat Jordan, said this meeting not only reflects the importance of all partners’ joint efforts, but also highlighted the commitment of the Jordanian Government in addressing water challenges related to climate change. “Today's meeting is an important opportunity to discuss the project's progress, challenges and opportunities, and to exchange experiences and learn from best practices and lessons learned. It is also an opportunity to enhance coordination and cooperation between all partners and parties concerned to ensure the project is implemented effectively, efficiently and sustainably”, she said.Financed by the Adaptation Fund, the project aims to provide innovative measures to promote climate change resilience with a focus on ensuring climate change and gender mainstreamed urban planning. It also encourages the sustainable management and use of water resources through promoting water-efficient irrigation methods and permaculture, in addition to using non-conventional water sources, such as treated wastewater and harvested rainwater. In Jordan, the cities of Mafraq and Irbid are the project’s targeted areas due to recurrent droughts, extreme heat and a shift in rainfall patterns which have recently become major concerns for these areas.
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