Over the years, Jordanians maintain steadfast solidarity with refugees – UNHCR study

Amman – Over 12 years after the start of the Syria crisis, Jordanians continue to show an outstanding level of sympathy for refugees and their inclusion in health and education systems.

Sympathy of Jordanians towards refugees remains stable at a very high level over a decade after the onset of the Syria crisis. This is a key finding of a new UNHCR survey published on Wednesday. 96 per cent of respondents expressed sympathy, compared to 95 per cent in November 2022 and similar levels in earlier editions of the survey on the perceptions of refugees by the host population in the Kingdom.

78 per cent of Jordanians say they support the continuing inclusion of refugees in the local community and national systems, such as education and healthcare as agreed in the Jordan Compact in 2016. 89 per cent agree that there is a state of coexistence between refugees and host communities.

“The survey’s findings are a testament to the compassion of the Jordanian people. Despite challenges, the survey reflects the country’s unshakable welcoming and hospitable culture towards people fleeing conflict and violence”, said UNHCR Representative to Jordan, Dominik Bartsch. “The survey provides invaluable insights as we work towards building stronger, more inclusive communities.”

The study, conducted for UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, by Headway Jordan in May and June 2023, reflects the views of nearly 3,300 Jordanian women and men residing across the Kingdom. Earlier editions of the survey captured the perception of refugees since October 2020.

By listening to the host community, the survey contributes to a nuanced understanding of evolving dynamics and sentiments around refugees and provides valuable data for evidence-based decision-making and effective humanitarian and development programmes.

UNHCR works with the Government of Jordan and partners to ensure refugees access services and are included as contributing members in the Jordanian society and economy. For instance, UNHCR and several reputable educational institutions across Jordan have recently signed agreements to lower tuition fees for refugees of all nationalities to the amounts Jordanian students pay. The achievements made over the years will need the continued support of the donor community.

The survey can be found here.