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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:
Story
01 June 2023
Jordan’s farmers respond to water scarcity woes with innovation
JORDAN (Northern Shouneh)— For Hosni Al-Rayahnah, a 63-year-old farmer in Northern Shouneh, Jordan, climate change and water scarcity is an everyday reality.
“Things have changed over the past few years, as the climate has become hotter with less rain, which affected the quality and quantity of my crops,” says Al-Rayahnah, who started farming 20 years ago.
“For me and other farmers, we struggled to afford enough water to weather the impact of heat waves on our crops. Water pumping has been reduced to our farms due to the limited water supply. Some of us were about to quit the profession,” he explains.
Jordan is one of the world’s most water-scarce countries, with as little as 61 m3 of water available per person every year. In addition, limited water resources are fueling competition between the agriculture, domestic and industrial sectors. The agricultural sector, which consumes 51% of the country’s freshwater resources, is especially vulnerable to climate change and water scarcity.
Population growth affected by waves of refugees, economic and agricultural demands, and the adverse impacts of climate change have further compounded the water scarcity challenge.
Economically vulnerable communities like Al-Rayahnah’s, particularly those in rural areas, are among those most heavily impacted by the decreasing water resources. Seeds of change The UN is enhancing its collaboration with the Government and people of Jordan to address the growing issue of water scarcity and advance progress on Sustainable Development Goal 6 on clean water and sanitation. The Kingdom of Jordan has recently launched a new water strategy for the years 2023-2040, which outlines the government’s goals and plans to achieve water security.
Lowering reliance on freshwater by increasing use of reclaimed water for irrigated agriculture, more efficient irrigation systems, and expanded rainfed agriculture and rainwater harvesting are one of the key priorities included in this strategy. “The UN is proud to partner with the Kingdom of Jordan as it addresses these unprecedented water challenges,” said Sheri Ritsema-Anderson, the UN Resident Coordinator in Jordan in a visit to Northern Shouneh. “The UN is supporting national and local government to better respond to climate change impacts and vulnerabilities,” she added. “This includes technical support to concerned authorities, public awareness, and implementation of projects on the community level, such as rooftops rainwater harvesting, use of water saving domestic devices, use of reclaimed water and water networks rehabilitation.” Bringing innovation to irrigation
Hope has come in the form of new knowledge with the farmers learning new irrigation methods which have helped expand production, grow new varieties of fruits and vegetables, and use water efficiently.
Al-Rayahnah and other farmers in the Northern Shouneh, joined the Farmers Field Schools (FFS) supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), an initiative that has been running since 2018 in Jordan.
The main goal of the schools is to improve farmers’ skills and facilitate the adaptation of best farming practices for more sustainable water and food management.
So far, more than 1,500 farmers joined these schools.
“The primary goal of these schools was to help save water for irrigation. After implementing water efficiency methods including drip irrigation I increased the size of my farm as I started using almost the same quantity of water to water more crops and plant more varieties,” said Al-Rayahnah. These schools are among several projects and initiatives that FAO is implementing to improve sustainable agricultural water management and increase water efficiency for irrigation. Water harvesting is another technique that farmers in Northern Shouneh are being supported with, thanks to a collaboration between FAO and Jordan’s Ministry of Water and Irrigation. “In the context of water shortage and as the agricultural sector consumes about half of the country’s total available water, adopting good agricultural and irrigation practices that improve water efficiency and water productivity is necessary for sustainable water management and for a better production.” said Nabil Assaf, FAO Representative in Jordan.
“Climate smart agricultural systems, farmers’ capacity building on best practices and rainwater harvesting are part of what we are implementing to increase water availability through non-conventional resources and enhance water use efficiency for agriculture. This will lead to better production, better nutrition and better environment for a better life, leaving no one behind,” Assaf added.
Shifting agriculture for water use
The shift in water use and efficiency is driving new innovations across sectors that can help deliver impact. FAO is also providing assistance to Jordan to expand hydroponic and aquaponic farming, which provide another opportunity for the water-scarce country’s agriculture sector to produce more crops, while using less water.
In cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture, FAO established a nursery in the North of Jordan to implement this method and so far, 1,500 farmers and students have learned the techniques of hydroponics and aquaponics farming, according to Bahjat Sawalmah, head of the AlFaisal Nursery.
Sawalmah said that these new techniques save up to 80% of water usage, compared to the traditional techniques. “In addition, it ensures the continuity of having high-quality products like strawberries, tomatoes, cucumbers and leafy vegetables throughout the year”. In addition to aquaponics, nearly 400 public buildings and 7,850 households will be fitted with the roof top water harvesting structures, with the support of FAO and partners.
This is helping build climate resilience at the household level with improved access to water and efficient water use as well as in selected public buildings such as schools, mosques, municipalities with the help of water harvesting at the local community level.
For farmers in Northern Shouneh, these are steps on a long journey ahead, reshaping the future of farming and food security in Jordan.
“More collective action is needed to address these long-standing impacts of climate change and ensure sustainability of agriculture. We need maintain this industry but we need to change and adapt. This is fundamental to ensure food security for the future generations”, Al-Rayahnah concluded. This article was written by the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office in Jordan with editorial support from UN DCO.
“Things have changed over the past few years, as the climate has become hotter with less rain, which affected the quality and quantity of my crops,” says Al-Rayahnah, who started farming 20 years ago.
“For me and other farmers, we struggled to afford enough water to weather the impact of heat waves on our crops. Water pumping has been reduced to our farms due to the limited water supply. Some of us were about to quit the profession,” he explains.
Jordan is one of the world’s most water-scarce countries, with as little as 61 m3 of water available per person every year. In addition, limited water resources are fueling competition between the agriculture, domestic and industrial sectors. The agricultural sector, which consumes 51% of the country’s freshwater resources, is especially vulnerable to climate change and water scarcity.
Population growth affected by waves of refugees, economic and agricultural demands, and the adverse impacts of climate change have further compounded the water scarcity challenge.
Economically vulnerable communities like Al-Rayahnah’s, particularly those in rural areas, are among those most heavily impacted by the decreasing water resources. Seeds of change The UN is enhancing its collaboration with the Government and people of Jordan to address the growing issue of water scarcity and advance progress on Sustainable Development Goal 6 on clean water and sanitation. The Kingdom of Jordan has recently launched a new water strategy for the years 2023-2040, which outlines the government’s goals and plans to achieve water security.
Lowering reliance on freshwater by increasing use of reclaimed water for irrigated agriculture, more efficient irrigation systems, and expanded rainfed agriculture and rainwater harvesting are one of the key priorities included in this strategy. “The UN is proud to partner with the Kingdom of Jordan as it addresses these unprecedented water challenges,” said Sheri Ritsema-Anderson, the UN Resident Coordinator in Jordan in a visit to Northern Shouneh. “The UN is supporting national and local government to better respond to climate change impacts and vulnerabilities,” she added. “This includes technical support to concerned authorities, public awareness, and implementation of projects on the community level, such as rooftops rainwater harvesting, use of water saving domestic devices, use of reclaimed water and water networks rehabilitation.” Bringing innovation to irrigation
Hope has come in the form of new knowledge with the farmers learning new irrigation methods which have helped expand production, grow new varieties of fruits and vegetables, and use water efficiently.
Al-Rayahnah and other farmers in the Northern Shouneh, joined the Farmers Field Schools (FFS) supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), an initiative that has been running since 2018 in Jordan.
The main goal of the schools is to improve farmers’ skills and facilitate the adaptation of best farming practices for more sustainable water and food management.
So far, more than 1,500 farmers joined these schools.
“The primary goal of these schools was to help save water for irrigation. After implementing water efficiency methods including drip irrigation I increased the size of my farm as I started using almost the same quantity of water to water more crops and plant more varieties,” said Al-Rayahnah. These schools are among several projects and initiatives that FAO is implementing to improve sustainable agricultural water management and increase water efficiency for irrigation. Water harvesting is another technique that farmers in Northern Shouneh are being supported with, thanks to a collaboration between FAO and Jordan’s Ministry of Water and Irrigation. “In the context of water shortage and as the agricultural sector consumes about half of the country’s total available water, adopting good agricultural and irrigation practices that improve water efficiency and water productivity is necessary for sustainable water management and for a better production.” said Nabil Assaf, FAO Representative in Jordan.
“Climate smart agricultural systems, farmers’ capacity building on best practices and rainwater harvesting are part of what we are implementing to increase water availability through non-conventional resources and enhance water use efficiency for agriculture. This will lead to better production, better nutrition and better environment for a better life, leaving no one behind,” Assaf added.
Shifting agriculture for water use
The shift in water use and efficiency is driving new innovations across sectors that can help deliver impact. FAO is also providing assistance to Jordan to expand hydroponic and aquaponic farming, which provide another opportunity for the water-scarce country’s agriculture sector to produce more crops, while using less water.
In cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture, FAO established a nursery in the North of Jordan to implement this method and so far, 1,500 farmers and students have learned the techniques of hydroponics and aquaponics farming, according to Bahjat Sawalmah, head of the AlFaisal Nursery.
Sawalmah said that these new techniques save up to 80% of water usage, compared to the traditional techniques. “In addition, it ensures the continuity of having high-quality products like strawberries, tomatoes, cucumbers and leafy vegetables throughout the year”. In addition to aquaponics, nearly 400 public buildings and 7,850 households will be fitted with the roof top water harvesting structures, with the support of FAO and partners.
This is helping build climate resilience at the household level with improved access to water and efficient water use as well as in selected public buildings such as schools, mosques, municipalities with the help of water harvesting at the local community level.
For farmers in Northern Shouneh, these are steps on a long journey ahead, reshaping the future of farming and food security in Jordan.
“More collective action is needed to address these long-standing impacts of climate change and ensure sustainability of agriculture. We need maintain this industry but we need to change and adapt. This is fundamental to ensure food security for the future generations”, Al-Rayahnah concluded. This article was written by the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office in Jordan with editorial support from UN DCO.
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Press Release
20 June 2021
On World Refugee Day, Jordan continues to be the second host country of refugees per capita in the world
Jordan continues to be the second host country of refugees per capita in the world, according to UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency. Currently home to over 750,000 refugees, Jordan has time and again opened its doors to those forced to flee. Today, more than 10 years into the Syria crisis, the vast majority of Jordanians - 94 percent - still say they are sympathetic towards refugees.
This positive attitude towards including refugees in Jordanian society has also extended to the health sector. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, refugees in Jordan have been included in the national response and, more recently, have been able to receive the vaccine free of charge. 40 percent of eligible refugees living in refugee camps in Jordan have now received at least their first dose of the vaccine.
Despite this, the COVID-19 pandemic has put a strain on health care, schools and our communities, severely impacting refugees and their Jordanian hosts, and pushing more families into poverty. This means refugees are increasingly resorting to moving to lower-quality shelters, skipping rent, accumulating debt or reducing food expenditure. In addressing these challenges and building back better, UNHCR is committed to supporting both refugee and Jordanian communities.
“Our assistance to refugees must be part of the broader recovery efforts to help all those affected by the economic impact of the crisis. The COVID-19 pandemic has illustrated that we all have a role to play in keeping each other safe." said Dominik Bartsch, UNHCR Jordan Representative. "UNHCR is dedicated to work with the Jordanian Government to ensure that the needs of vulnerable refugees and Jordanians are met,” Bartsch added. In recognition of the skills refugees have to offer, on World Refugee Day, UNHCR is launching a Nursing and Health Care Lab in partnership with Luminus Technical University College (LTUC), which will benefit both refugee and Jordanian students. Using the latest medical equipment, machines and amenities for Pediatrics, Maternity, Obstetrics and Gynecology, the lab simulates the environment of a hospital providing vocational training to ensure students’ smooth transition to the labor market.
Additionally, through a collaboration with the UN Chamber Music Society and in a performance led by Jordanian singer, Leen Alfaqih, and accompanied by a refugee choir, UNHCR Jordan is using the power of music to highlight that ‘Together, we can achieve anything. Together we can heal, learn and shine.’
This positive attitude towards including refugees in Jordanian society has also extended to the health sector. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, refugees in Jordan have been included in the national response and, more recently, have been able to receive the vaccine free of charge. 40 percent of eligible refugees living in refugee camps in Jordan have now received at least their first dose of the vaccine.
Despite this, the COVID-19 pandemic has put a strain on health care, schools and our communities, severely impacting refugees and their Jordanian hosts, and pushing more families into poverty. This means refugees are increasingly resorting to moving to lower-quality shelters, skipping rent, accumulating debt or reducing food expenditure. In addressing these challenges and building back better, UNHCR is committed to supporting both refugee and Jordanian communities.
“Our assistance to refugees must be part of the broader recovery efforts to help all those affected by the economic impact of the crisis. The COVID-19 pandemic has illustrated that we all have a role to play in keeping each other safe." said Dominik Bartsch, UNHCR Jordan Representative. "UNHCR is dedicated to work with the Jordanian Government to ensure that the needs of vulnerable refugees and Jordanians are met,” Bartsch added. In recognition of the skills refugees have to offer, on World Refugee Day, UNHCR is launching a Nursing and Health Care Lab in partnership with Luminus Technical University College (LTUC), which will benefit both refugee and Jordanian students. Using the latest medical equipment, machines and amenities for Pediatrics, Maternity, Obstetrics and Gynecology, the lab simulates the environment of a hospital providing vocational training to ensure students’ smooth transition to the labor market.
Additionally, through a collaboration with the UN Chamber Music Society and in a performance led by Jordanian singer, Leen Alfaqih, and accompanied by a refugee choir, UNHCR Jordan is using the power of music to highlight that ‘Together, we can achieve anything. Together we can heal, learn and shine.’
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Take Action
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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Story
28 September 2023
United Nations Resident Coordinator Office in Jordan announces "Writing, Drawing, and Photography Competition” to Spark SDG Insights
Amman- The United Nations Resident Coordinator Office in Jordan has announced the "Writing, Drawing, and Photography Competition" as part of the #17Goals campaign. This competition aims to encourage young minds to express their perspectives on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on education, climate action, food security, and water.
The competition serves as a platform for youth in the age category of 15 to 18 in Jordan to showcase their talents and perspectives through storytelling, artwork, and photography. By participating, young individuals will have the opportunity to reflect on the challenges their society faces, envision sustainable solutions, and contribute to positive change.
Eligibility Criteria:
This competition is open to young individuals in the 15-18 age category in Jordan.
Entries shall cover one of four themes: Education, climate action, food security, and water.
Guidelines:
Participants are encouraged to explore these questions when preparing their entries:
What are the challenges facing [education climate action, food security, and/or water] in Jordan, and what can be done to address them?
What role can individuals play in solving these issues?
How do individual or group actions impact education, climate action, food security or water security in Jordan?
How will implementing the SDGs improve resource consumption and resource use behaviors?
Participants should select one or more of the provided themes for their stories, drawings, or photographs and connect them to one or more SDGs. For more information on SDGs in Jordan, please visit https://jordan.un.org/en/sdgs.
Deadline and Specifications:
All entries must be submitted to RCS-Jordan-Comsteam@un.org by no later than October 21st. The email should include the participant’s personal information (name, age, nationality, place of residence, mobile number, email), the competition category (writing, drawing, or photograph), the chosen theme, and the related SDG(s).
Stories: Stories should be 300-500 words, in either English or Arabic, and should include a title, present the problem and suggested solutions through storytelling.
Drawings: Drawings should be A4 size and should be scanned for email submission.
Photographs: Photographs should be saved in jpeg format, with a size not exceeding 5MB. Photographs should be uploaded to Dropbox, Google Drive, WeTransfer, or another platform, and sent as a link via email, along with the required information (description, person appearing in the photograph, relevant SDGs, city, country, and date taken).
Winners:
A panel of esteemed judges, including experts in each field and the UN team in Jordan, will evaluate the submissions and select one winner for each of the three categories: stories, drawings, and photography.
The winners of each category will receive an opportunity to shadow the United Nations Resident Coordinator for an entire working day. This exclusive experience will provide them with firsthand insights into the critical work of the UN in Jordan, allowing them to witness and understand the responsibilities and tasks undertaken by the Resident Coordinator. This invaluable experience will serve as a steppingstone for young talents to expand their knowledge about the UN's initiatives in Jordan and the global impact of the SDGs.
For more information about the competition, please visit Jordan.un.org. For inquiries, please contact RCS-Jordan-Comsteam@un.org
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Story
28 September 2023
Citadel of Amman Illuminated with SDGs: UNRC's Call for Collective Action
On the eve of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Summit in New York, the United Nations in Jordan transformed the historic Citadel of Amman into a canvas for hope, projecting the vibrant colors and powerful messages of the SDGs.
The event was a symbolic gesture to reaffirm the UN's commitment to Jordan's journey toward achieving the SDGs. It showcased the importance of partnerships as the cornerstone of collective action.
The SDGs Summit in New York, took place from September 18 to 20, served as a critical moment for world leaders to assess global progress, identify challenges, and renew their dedication to the SDGs. It marked the midpoint of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
In her speech at the Citadel event, UN Resident Coordinator in Jordan, Sheri Ritsema-Anderson, expressed gratitude for the dedication of individuals and organizations contributing to sustainable development. She emphasized the significance of the Summit and the need for nations to unite and commit to a global rescue plan for the planet.
She praised Jordan for its commitment to the SDGs, highlighting the collaboration between the UN and the Ministry of Planning and International Cooperation in developing Jordan's SDG commitments. These commitments are a testament to Jordan's leadership and its dedication to integrating SDGs into national development plans.
The event at the Citadel aligns with UN Jordan's #17Goals campaign, amplifying the global call for action and inspiring stakeholders to work collectively toward the 2030 Agenda.
Ritsema-Anderson encouraged active engagement with the #17Goals campaign, urging individuals, businesses, NGOs, and government agencies to share their actions in support of the SDGs.
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Story
25 September 2023
Jordan: How a Syrian father traces his eldest son who embarked on a dangerous journey to Europe
“Papa, I might be without connection for three days when I am on the boat to Italy”, Mohammad Al Ghazali, recalls a phone call from his son Shoug when he had reached the Mediterranean shore in Libya. “So don’t worry, my son said. On the fourth day, I started to worry.” Meanwhile, Mohammad whose family fled to Jordan in 2013 after feeling caught in the middle of warrying fractions inside Syria, is certain: “My son died in a shipwreck on the way to Italy.”
Mohammad’s eldest son is one of at least a dozen refugees who previously lived in Jordan and were on a ship that capsized near Pylos, Greece. Hundreds of refugees and migrants were on board on 14 June 2023, several dozen bodies were retrieved, many more are missing and feared dead. Some 2,700 men, women and children went missing or dead in the Mediterranean since the beginning of the year, according to IOM figures. Together with UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, the organization continues to call for coordinated search and rescue at sea as a legal and humanitarian imperative.
Parents’ hope
It all began when Shoug who worked in bakery shops felt he was not treated fairly by employers or co-workers in Irbid governorate that hosts 143,000 of the over 730,000 refugees registered with UNHCR countrywide. “A lot of people tried to take advantage of him, they did not pay him the full money”, recalls Mohammad. “My son came with the idea to go to Europe, so we wanted him to get married to get away from the idea. We were very worried”, says his father. Shoug married Fidaa* in October 2022.
The parents’ plan did not work. At the contrary. “Shoug felt extra responsibility after the marriage, he wanted to take care of his family”, says Mohammad as he fights with tears, “one day in April he told me: ‘Dad, I have decided to take the boat.’” Shoug wanted to reach Italy and head on to Germany or the Netherlands where the family has relatives. Mohammad needs a few minutes before he can continue the grim account.
A call from Libya
They were in touch again by phone when Shoug crossed Libya until the fateful last call from the Mediterranean coast near Tobruk. Mohammad tried not to worry. As the Pylos shipwreck was all over the news, he searched social media for answers. Some posts suggested they were following events closely, even during the last hours before the shipwreck when the migrants and refugees on board warned each other of moving suddenly in larger groups on the ship as this might jeopardize its balance. Mohammad was shocked to read in a post that even before the shipwreck six passengers had reportedly already died of dehydration.
Mohammad did not want to believe the news of the shipwreck for several days. “Deep inside, I was thinking that my son was still alive.” A long agony of uncertainty began for Mohammad, his wife, children and grandchildren.
In touch with survivors
Mohammad also tried to contact other people who were on the ship – four relatives and a couple of neighbours – to no avail. His worries only got worse. He reached relatives in Germany and Netherlands who went to Greece and found survivors. One of Shoug’s friends on board, one of about four dozen Syrian survivors, had not seen Shoug among the survivors. Others finally confirmed that Mohammad’s son had in fact been on the third floor of the ship. After days of worry, Mohammad had to realize: “My son is dead.”
“People know, and they will keep thinking of reaching Europe”, Mohammad shrugs, “because the humanitarian conditions are so hard here.” Mohammad used to earn a living as a taxi driver in Syria, but is barred from his profession in Jordan as he cannot get a driver’s license here. He works hard in agriculture, but the little income from this seasonal work is not enough for him to make ends meet. He says he has received eviction orders for not paying the rent of 120 Jordanian Dinars (some 170 US$) for their apartment in a three-storey building in a poor neighbourhood on the outskirts of Irbid in which his daughters and their families, his other children and grandchildren live. UNHCR has warned of the serious consequences declining humanitarian support will have on refugees, including the protection risks of taking dangerous routes to other countries.
Refugees in Jordan for 10 years
In Mohammad’s recollection, leaving for Europe has “increased in 2019, first via Belarus, now everybody heads for Libya.” Daniela Floridia, Head of UNHCR’s Legal Unit in Amman, finds this “very worrying: People who had found refuge in hospitable Jordan, decide to leave out of despair, as they tell us when we interview them”, she says. “After analyzing some of the known cases, we found out that they had lived in Jordan for over ten years on average. It breaks my heart that they do not see a perspective in Jordan anymore and undertake these dangerous journeys.”
Mohammad’s 24-year-old daughter Sawsan Al Ghazali breaks out in tears when Shoug’s name is mentioned. Sitting on the old sofa next to her father, she shares the impact on Shoug’s wife Fidaa: “One day, I heard a scream from inside the house. When I went down to their flat, I found his wife in their bedroom in a hysterical state, crying, and throwing her new clothes everywhere in the room”, she recalls. “‘For whom will I wear them?’, she shouted.”
Fidaa had been four months pregnant when Shoug left. After the news on Shoug, Mohammad and his wife were looking forward to this grandchild. “We put a big hope in the baby, we wanted to see our son in the child”, says Mohammad.
The hope was in vain. Fidaa’s mental health deteriorated seriously after the dreadful news, she even stopped eating, against the advice of her doctor. “My daughter-in-law lost her baby”, decries Mohammad.
Following the shipwreck, UNHCR held awareness sessions on the protection risks of onward movement across Jordan, and distributed posters on facilities providing services for refugees. “We have referred Mohammad and his family for psychosocial support, counselled them on legal and other available services, we also provided the family with urgent cash assistance to mitigate their unspeakable pain”, says Mouaz Al Takrouri, Associate Protection Officer in Irbid. “But we know, this cannot give Shoug or his child back to the family.”
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Story
23 July 2023
In an exclusive interview with Al Mamlaka TV
Summary of the interview
In an exclusive interview with Al Mamlaka TV on 18 July, Sheri Ritsema-Anderson, the UN Resident Coordinator in Jordan, emphasized the enduring partnership between the UN and the Government of Jordan.
During the period of implementation for the UN Development Sustainable Framework for 2018-2022, she said, the UN successfully implemented diverse programs and initiatives valued at approximately $4.6 billion, with $1 billion spent in 2022. These programs, encompassing both humanitarian and developmental efforts, resulted in significant advancements in three key areas: strengthening institutions, empowering individuals, and enhancing opportunities, she explained.
Some of the key achievements the UN has contributed to include the establishment of the Kingdom’s first ever Artificial Intelligence Strategy, Urban Policy, and Social Protection Strategy; promotion of compliance with international labour standards in the garment sector, supporting Jordan to retain preferential access to EU and US markets; and the development and implementation of plans to conserve cultural heritage. The UN has also supported the delivery of basic services, such as health care and education, helping more than 56,000 children overcome the learning they lost during COVID and supporting the Ministry of Education in assessing nearly 1 million students on their Arabic and maths levels.
Despite the remarkable progress achieved in the past five years, Ritsema-Anderson acknowledged that Jordan continues to encounter challenges in its pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), similar to other countries. She noted that across the world, progress is significantly off track. She highlighted the critical areas of concern, as stated in the Government of Jordan’s Voluntary National Report presented at the UN in 2022, include addressing inequalities, promoting economic growth, and creating decent work opportunities, as evident in unemployment statistics.
Looking ahead, the UN, she added that the UN is actively collaborating with the Jordanian government to finalize the "UN Cooperation Framework 2023-2027." This agreement places a strong emphasis on inclusive green growth, decent work, social protection, quality basic services, sustainable management of water, food, and energy, as well as public sector accountability, transparency, and participation. “However, the projected budget for UN projects in the next five years is currently estimated at $3 billion, however, this is an early estimate, and we hope to see this expand” during implementation of the framework.
Speaking about Agenda 2030 and its 17 SDGs, Ritsema-Anderson cautioned that the SDGs face significant risks. As member states convene at the High-Level Political Forum in New York to devise a rescue plan, the impact of COVID-19 and various global and regional crises have hindered progress towards the SDGs. Citing the recent UN report by the Secretary General, it is projected that 575 million people will remain trapped in extreme poverty and 84 million children will be out of school by 2030, with the world's poorest populations being most affected. Hunger has returned to levels not seen since 2005 and it will take 300 years to reach gender equality at the current pace.
Expressing concern over funding challenges in Jordan, particularly for UNRWA and WFP refugee programs, Ritsema-Anderson underscored the pressing need to sustain essential services for Syrian and Palestine refugees. She stressed that UNRWA urgently requires $200 million to continue its critical work across all five areas of operations, having grappled with chronic underfunding for the past decade. Additionally, the WFP's recent announcements of a reduction in assistance for Syrian refugees in Jordan due to unprecedented funding shortfalls are deeply concerning and threaten the good work done by Jordan, the UN and donors together over the past 12 years. To avoid even further reductions in food assistance, WFP urgently needs to receive $41 million, which will cover unmet requirements until the end of 2023. Ritsema-Anderson called for continued financial support to provide hope and refuge for refugees in Jordan.
Regarding the return of Syrian refugees to their home country, Ritsema-Anderson noted that international principles require returns to be voluntary, safe and dignified. She explained the UN looks to whether these are in place when considering possibility of returns. She affirmed that the UN Special Envoy for Syria has publicly welcomed efforts by relevant parties to find solutions for the Syrian crisis, in line with UN resolutions. In addition, the UN facilitated the resettlement of a few thousand refugees in Jordan to third countries in 2022, an increase from 2021. She emphasized the need for countries to work with each other and agree amongst themselves how they can each best support refugees worldwide, in alignment with international law, the Global Compact on Refugees, and the New York Declaration for Refugees and Migrants, and guided by the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The Global Refugee Forum scheduled for December 2023 offers a unique opportunity for this inter-nation discussion to occur.
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Story
01 October 2023
UNESCO supports livelihoods through cultural heritage development
By ensuring the preservation of this ancient church’s historical features, such as its stone walls and mosaic floors, and facilitating access to the site, UNESCO and ILO, under the European Union funded project "Support to Livelihoods Through Cultural Heritage Development”, and in partnership with Acted Jordan, the Ministry of Tourism, and Department of Antiquities, aim at promoting tourism in the region while supporting livelihoods of surrounding local communities.
The rehabilitation of the site has enabled people from the local communities, like Hala and Hamza, to access employment. Read their stories:
After finishing her university studies in geology, Hala struggled to find a job as she lacked practical work experience. Through working on the project, she has gained a range of practical skills, including mosaic restoration, structural stabilization, and stone refinishing. She has particularly enjoyed working alongside others in the team to learn and support each other in completing the Beit Eidis rehabilitation work. She hopes to use the experience she has gained to find further work opportunities in the future.
"The project has allowed me to gain valuable practical experience that I was lacking after my university studies, to support me in finding future job opportunities," said Hala.
Hamza came to Jordan from Syria in 2012. He joined the project to earn an income, which he needed to support his wife and four young children. Although he had no prior experience, through the project, he learned eagerly on the job and attended skills training sessions with Acted. He now specializes in stone refinishing on the project and has developed a passion for understanding and preserving local cultural heritage.
"I have gained a lot of experience through the work and have learned a lot about how we can rehabilitate cultural heritage sites through skills trainings with Acted," said Hamza.
Thanks to funding support from the European Union and in collaboration with UNESCO, the ILO, the Department of Antiquities, and the Ministry of Tourism, Acted is working to support livelihoods through cultural heritage rehabilitation in Beit Eidis and Pella, Irbid Governorate, Jordan. The project has created employment opportunities and provided skills training for 283 Syrian refugees and vulnerable Jordanians, while preserving local cultural heritage.
*Names have been changed to protect workers’ identities
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Press Release
08 October 2023
UN-Habitat and ARDD Sign MoU to Mainstream Community-Led Neighbourhood Planning in Jabal Amman
With the aim of enhancing the quality of life for residents in Jabal Amman, the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) and the Arab Renaissance for Democracy and Development (ARDD) have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), in the presence of representatives from the Greater Amman Municipality, Ghadeer Al Hmoud, Deputy City Manager for Planning, and Hatem Al Hamlan, Deputy City Manager for Community Development. These organizations will collaborate to mainstream community-led neighbourhood planning in Jabal Amman, with a focus on addressing the unique challenges and long-term needs of the diverse population in the area.
Rania Hedaya, Representative (a.i.) of the UN-Habitat Regional Office for Arab States, expressed the importance of this partnership with an NGO, stating “Our collaboration places a strong emphasis on inclusivity and diversity in the planning process. We are committed to ensuring that marginalized and vulnerable populations have a voice in shaping their neighbourhoods. Their perspectives are invaluable as we work towards a more equitable community.”
Samar Muhareb, ARDD Chief Executive Director, echoed this, emphasizing that "This collaboration aims to advance comprehensive urban development by engaging all segments of the community in planning the future of their city, identifying needs, and investing equitably in the opportunities available in their residential areas. It is in line with ARDD efforts in advocating for a participatory approach, ensuring collaboration with civil society in urban projects, and supporting government directions and policymaking for sustainability, crisis response, and societal peace.”
She added, “The project specifically sheds a light on Jabal Amman which encompasses over 50 civil society organizations and dynamic migrant and refugee communities. Together, these entities can contribute to overcoming challenges through civic participation in urban planning and facilitating access to essential services for the residents of that neighbourhood. Furthermore, this initiative serves as a valuable opportunity to assimilate and apply international experiences and best practices, and the generation of local knowledge in this significant field.”
This was emphasized by Deema Abu Thiab, the National Programme Coordinator for UN-Habitat Jordan, who explained, “Neighborhoods are central to the story and urban development of Jordan, whereby the challenges and opportunities of the Kingdom are intensely experienced at the neighborhood level, as we experienced during the COVID-19 lockdown, influencing the lives of every resident at every moment.”
Jabal Amman has been central to the modern history of Amman and holds a special place in the city's identity. With its rich history and diverse communities, it presents a unique set of opportunities to envision, in a participatory manner, equitable and sustainable communities. The signing of this MOU signifies a shared commitment by UN-Habitat and ARDD to harness this distinctive neighbourhood’s potential while addressing pressing issues such as urbanization, accessibility, resilience, and sustainability.
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Press Release
08 October 2023
Second regional Steering Committee convene on “Resilient Water Solutions Against Climate Change in Jordan and Lebanon” project
UN-Habitat, in partnership with ESCWA and UNICEF gather Jordanian and Lebanese Ministers of Environment with local authorities and project partners to discuss the regional context of water-related climate adaptation measures in Jordan and Lebanon.
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) and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and national executing entities, the second Regional Steering Committee meeting in Jordan was held on 3 October, followed by visits to project sites on 4 October 2023.
Chaired by the Jordanian Minister of Environment Dr. Muawieh Khalid Radaideh and Lebanese Minister of Environment Dr. Nasser Yassin, the Committee meeting gathered the project’s national coordinators, local authorities, project partners and other relevant stakeholders. The Committee discussed project progress, milestones, challenges, and solutions, and operationalized a concrete platform for critical regional learning in both countries towards climate change adaptation solutions.
The meeting provided critical insight into the areas where regional exchange is mostly needed, with a focus on the two countries, and concluded with measures to further enhance the transfer of knowledge and experiences gained through project implementation. It also concluded with concrete entry points to promote the upscaling, replication and sustainability of the project, and served as a practical learning experience between Lebanese and Jordanian officials while visiting two wastewater treatment and reuse projects in Mafraq and Me’rad, a permaculture site at Jerash University, and the Urban Observatory of Greater Amman Municipality.
In his remarks, Radiadeh highlighted climate impacts on Jordan. “The climate-related challenges facing the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan are significant… rainfall rates have decreased by almost half over the past fifty years, while the share of water per capita has decreased by nearly 80%. Over the years, it has also become clear that climate change would impact various development sectors, including water, agriculture, urban areas, health, and society as a whole,” said Radaideh. “This meeting comes within the context of ensuring the effective implementation of the project, discussing the progression of project activities and benefiting from the diverse experiences in both countries, and working collaboratively to achieve the project’s objectives.”
Meanwhile, Yassin emphasized the importance of regional collaboration to adapt to climate change and stressed the importance of international funding. “Joint efforts amongst Arab states to combat climate change and its implications on the water sector are of utmost importance. There is a need to promote and adopt innovative measures in different sectors such as water, agriculture, management of forests and natural reserves,” said Yassin. “There is an unfulfilled commitment of industrial countries to fund adaptation projects in underdeveloped countries, where pledges committed during different climate summits have not reached 6% of the total commitments,” he added.
UN-Habitat Regional Representative (a.i.) for Arab States Rania Hedaya highlighted water scarcity amid displacement and increased urbanization in the Levant. “Water scarcity is one of the most pressing current issues causing concern for the future of our region. In addition to the effects of climate change, the Arab region is witnessing rapid urbanization accompanied by a large influx of refugees due to the spread of conflicts in the region. As our cities expand, this project’s interventions strive to address the complex interaction between urban growth, migration and climate change in both Jordan and Lebanon,” she said.
“For Jordan and Lebanon, climate change is exacerbating vulnerability in rural and urban communities and in formal and informal communities alike,” said Director of the Arab Centre for Climate Change Policies Cluster at ESCWA Ms. Carol Chouchani Cherfane. “This requires effective solutions that advance climate adaptation,” she stressed. “Your efforts identifying, testing and pursuing these solutions on the ground can be shared with others in the region and around the world.”
The project provides replicable and innovative measures to promote climate change resilience and adaptation in the Arab region, with a focus on promoting climate change and gender mainstreamed urban planning in areas facing extreme weather events, namely governorates of Mafraq and Irbid in Jordan and Zahle district in Lebanon.
Financed by the Adaptation Fund, the project works on enabling local communities to adapt to increasing temperatures and declining precipitation levels that mostly lead to droughts, in addition to the varying rainfall patterns, which negatively affect agriculture. Finally, the project focuses on 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.
To promote regional knowledge exchange, the project also recently launched the virtual Community of Practice (CoP) “Urban Water and Climate Resilience in the Arab Region,” a platform that brings experts and practitioners together to discuss water-related climate change impacts on cities hosting displaced communities, including discussions around urban adaptation solutions.
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Press Release
08 October 2023
UNESCO and Greater Amman Municipality Organise a workshop on the Right to Access Information
Commemorating the International Day for Universal Access to Information IDUAI, UNESCO Jordan and the Greater Amman Municipality organised a collaborative working day. This partnership underscores the organisations' commitment to promoting transparency, enhancing governance, and upholding the democratic right to access information.
"Access to information is the cornerstone of progressive and inclusive societies," stated Mr. Hatem Al Hamlan, Deputy City Manager for social development. "In collaboration with UNESCO, we strive to elevate the Great Amman Municipality as a regional benchmark for best practices. Our goal, through new protocols, is to ensure our citizens have uncomplicated and efficient access to information.
Ms. Min Jeong Kim, UNESCO Representative to Jordan, emphasized the need for a shift in strategy given the law's stagnation. She advocated for creating protocols in institutions that prioritize best practices in information accessibility and are in tune with Jordan's existing legislation. This approach ensures that institutions work effectively within the legal confines while ensuring maximum transparency and access.
The collaborative effort aims to position the Municipality at the forefront in information accessibility, with objectives including the creation of an action plan in alignment with the Jordanian Access to Information Law, capacity building for its officials, and a continuous roadmap for information accessibility.
The discussion, which was held at Al Hussein Cultural Center, was conducted by the legal expert Mohammad Qtaishat, aims to pinpoint the Municipality's strategies concerning information access and framing an action plan grounded in best practices, considering both public and departmental feedback.
UNESCO's commitment extends beyond this single event, with a pledged ongoing collaboration with the Municipality to ensure implementation of the day’s outcomes. This partnership's milestones will be featured in the MIL Cities segment during the upcoming Global MIL Week at the Dead Sea.
This collaboration is funded by the Multi-Donor Programme on Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists. The Programme enhances UNESCO's mission by channeling funds towards emerging priorities and pressing needs on freedom of expression, access to information, media development, and media and information literacy.
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Press Release
01 October 2023
Bank al Etihad and UNICEF renew partnership to empower young climate leaders in Jordan
AMMAN – UNICEF and Bank al Etihad have renewed their partnership for a second year to continue empowering young people in Jordan to engage in climate action both in their communities and through national and global platforms.
Through the partnership, more than 1,500 young people aged 10 to 24 years, from all governorates of Jordan, will be equipped with the knowledge, tools and skills they need to engage in climate action.
In addition, dozens of young climate leaders and champions will receive the training and support they need to develop youth-led solutions to the climate crisis, while taking part in opportunities to advocate for action during key decision-making moments on both the national and global stage.
“Empowering young climate leaders is a promise for a brighter future,” said Nadia Al Saeed, chief Executive Officer of Bank al Etihad. “We are proud to renew our commitment with UNICEF, working hand in hand to equip Jordan's youth with the knowledge and tools they need to drive positive change in the face of climate challenges."
“The private sector is a critical partner for UNICEF to support youth-led innovation and progress on the climate crisis. We are delighted to renew our partnership with Bank al Etihad to give young people in Jordan the skills and opportunities they need to lead climate action for a more sustainable future,” said Philippe Duamelle, UNICEF Representative to Jordan.
With this support from Bank al Etihad, UNICEF will also ensure that young people in Jordan have their voices heard through their participation in the Local Conference of Youth on Climate Change (LCOY) held in Amman on 2-5 October, and as part of the Jordan country delegation attending the COP28 Climate Change Summit in Dubai in November.
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Press Release
28 September 2023
Measles-Rubella vaccine in Jordan is safe and effective at saving children’s lives – WHO and UNICEF
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the rate of Measles vaccination coverage in Jordan has declined alarmingly, with approximately 112,000 children under five years of age (more than 6 out of 10 children in this age group) having missed their routine doses of measles-containing vaccine. The high number of unvaccinated individuals has already led to an outbreak of measles earlier in April 2023, when 163 measles cases were reported in seven governorates.
“Measles is a deadly and highly contagious disease, which is easily prevented through vaccination, but to create herd immunity and shield our communities, it is critical that we achieve a vaccination coverage of 95 per cent or higher of two doses of the vaccine,” said Dr Jamela Al-Raiby, WHO Representative to Jordan.
"Vaccines are one of humanity’s greatest and most remarkable success stories – eliminating diseases and saving countless children’s lives. Building back immunity in Jordan through routine immunization and catch-up campaigns will help protect children and prevent the public health system becoming overwhelmed with outbreaks,” said Philippe Duamelle, UNICEF Representative to Jordan.
The MR vaccine used is procured on the global market from the Serum Institute of India (SII). In 2022, SII accounted for approximately 236 million doses of MR vaccines shipped globally, representing around 80% of all MR vaccines used in the world. SII is one of only two companies prequalified by WHO to make and distribute this vaccine, 81 Member States are using SII MR vaccine across the world.
. The WHO prequalification means that the vaccine meets global standards of quality, safety, and efficacy. WHO follows rigorous standards encompassing potency, thermostability, presentation, labelling and shipping conditions are met and maintained through regular re-evaluation, site inspection, targeted testing and investigation of any product complaints or adverse events following immunization.
WHO recommends using measles rubella vaccine for outbreak response immunization in measles or measles/rubella outbreaks for the countries that have rubella vaccine in the routine immunization programme[1].
Since 2021 UNICEF has procured over 436 million doses of measles-rubella vaccine benefitting 57 countries around the world.
To respond to this threat, the Ministry of Health, with the support of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Children’s Fund (UNICEF), developed a comprehensive measles outbreak response plan, including a key component of supplemental immunization activities for the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine.
Both UN agencies reiterated their commitment to the Ministry of Health to support our shared goals to strengthen the primary healthcare system, provide health workers with the resources and support they need, and deliver lifesaving vaccines to children.
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