Partnership between the UN and JAF boost the capabilities of Jordan’s border guards
13 May 2024
The visit to Eastern Military Region showcased our joint impact—upgraded facilities and infrastructure that boost the capabilities of Jordan’s border guards.
Eastern Military Region, Jordan — The partnership between the United Nations and the Jordanian Armed Forces (JAF) is pivotal in supporting Jordan's strategic objectives of maintaining peace and enhancing security.
During a visit to the Eastern borders, Sheri Ritsema-Anderson, the UN Resident Coordinator in Jordan, experienced firsthand the impactful support provided by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to the JAF.
"The UN is proud of our partnership with the Jordan Armed Forces. This visit to the Eastern Military Region showcased our joint impact—upgraded facilities and infrastructure that boost the capabilities of Jordan’s border guards," said Anderson.
Accompanied by Tajma Kurt, the Head of the IOM Mission in the Kingdom, Anderson received detailed briefings from JAF officials about the significant upgrades to facilities and infrastructure. These strategic improvements are crucial in effectively managing the Kingdom's borders, focusing on preventing infiltration and smuggling activities that pose threats to national security.
IOM’s Support Bolsters Border Security
Supported by IOM and funded by the Government of Canada, the project "To Enhance the Detection of Threats at the Borders through Improving the Living Conditions of Jordanian Border Guards", constituted a major investment in Jordan's border security.
Completed in 2022, the initiative targeted key areas along the northern border with Syria. During their visit, the delegation reviewed the impact of the significant enhancements that were made, including new accommodations and office buildings for border guards, refurbished boundary walls of the outposts, and solar energy systems that ensure the functioning of critical infrastructure and equipment at the borders. This comprehensive upgrade was designed to bolster the safety and efficiency of border operations, ensuring a secure and responsive border control system.
Enhanced Border Security and Humanitarian Integration.
Tajma Kurt highlighted the critical support the IOM provides in conjunction with JAF initiatives, emphasizing the integration of humanitarian principles into security practices. This collaboration has not only improved security but also ensured that humanitarian principles are at the forefront of border management strategies.
The Canada-funded project has led to significant enhancements in border security infrastructure, notably improving the living conditions and operational effectiveness of border guards stationed along critical zones. These improvements are integral to Jordan's strategic defense setup and have been instrumental in boosting the morale and operational efficiency of the forces on the ground.