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AMMAN — As millions continue to be displaced worldwide, older adults are among the most vulnerable yet often overlooked populations.

To address this pressing issue, the Columbia Global Centre Amman and the Columbia Aging Centre’s International Longevity Centre-USA are bringing together leading experts, academics, policymakers, and humanitarian organisations for a high-level roundtable titled "Older Adults Displaced by or Left Behind in Conflict or Emergencies: Addressing Needs and Fostering Capabilities," according to a statement for The Jordan Times.

The event will feature Columbia faculty, the UN Independent Expert on the Enjoyment of All Human Rights by Older Persons, representatives from UN agencies, and global humanitarian leaders, aiming to assess challenges, highlight contributions, and propose concrete solutions for displaced older persons.

Addressing the Unique Needs of Displaced Older Adults

Older adults play a crucial role in their communities, bringing resilience, wisdom, and experience. This convening will emphasise their strengths and the importance of fostering their ability to contribute, to ensure that humanitarian responses are more inclusive while effective.

Key discussions will explore strategies to enhance the health and well-being of displaced older persons, addressing the physical and mental health challenges they face and identifying effective interventions to ensure they receive appropriate care and support. The protection of human rights will also be at the forefront, with discussions focused on ensuring dignity, equity, and access to essential services, the statement said.

Many displaced older persons encounter systemic barriers that limit their ability to secure aid and rebuild their lives, necessitating stronger legal and policy frameworks to safeguard their rights.  Maureen Henry, Deputy Director, ILC-USA, said: “With threats to humanitarian aid overall, it will be important to continue to pursue interventions and policies that support older people in their existing roles, while also addressing their vulnerabilities.”

Another key priority is community, as displacement could lead to severe isolation for older adults. The roundtable will explore strategies to rebuild social networks, support adaptation to host communities and foster inclusive environments that empower older persons to live with dignity.

The event will also highlight the need for robust research and data collection to better inform policy and humanitarian responses, ensuring that the unique challenges of displaced older persons are addressed effectively, according to the statement.

Advancing Policy and Collaboration

The meeting outcomes include producing actionable policy and research recommendations designed to drive meaningful change. By identifying and addressing key data and research gaps -particularly regarding the physical, mental, and social needs of displaced older persons - stakeholders will collaborate to develop targeted, evidence-based solutions that enhance long-term support systems.

Following the event, a comprehensive report will summarise key findings and recommendations, serving as a critical resource for policymakers, humanitarian organisations, and researchers dedicated to improving advocacy efforts and shaping policies that prioritise older displaced persons.

AMMAN — Jordan has seen an improvement in its standing on the 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI), with its score increasing by three points.

The Kingdom now scores 49 out of 100, reflecting progress in the fight against corruption, according to a statement issued on Tuesday by Rasheed Transparency International – Jordan, the national chapter of Transparency International.

The CPI, which evaluates corruption levels based on assessments from eight independent international sources, ranked Jordan 59th out of 180 countries and regions.

The Kingdom’s improved score highlighted better evaluations of bribery levels in the public sector, bolstered by efforts in raising public awareness, improving oversight, strengthening accountability, and automating government services, the statement said.

Despite these advancements, the report emphasised the need for further reforms. "Jordan must continue to strengthen the separation of powers, align its legislation with international and bilateral agreements and ensure that related commitments are fully implemented."

The organisation also stressed that promoting good governance, fostering a culture of integrity and rejecting all forms of corruption are key to ensuring continued progress.

These steps are crucial for improving Jordan’s standing on international indices, fostering equal opportunities, encouraging economic growth and reinforcing social peace, the organisation added.

Regionally, Jordan ranked sixth in the Arab world, following the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Bahrain, marking a slight decline from 2023, when Jordan was ranked fourth.

Both Oman and Bahrain made substantial strides this year, improving their scores by 12 and 11 points, respectively, which contributed to Jordan's drop in regional ranking, the statement said.

Internationally, Denmark emerged at the top with a score of 90, followed by Finland (88), Singapore (84), and New Zealand (83).

The lowest scorers on the index were Libya and Yemen at 13, Syria at 12, Somalia at 9 and South Sudan, which received the lowest score of 8.

The CPI assesses key factors such as a government’s ability to reduce bribery, activate accountability mechanisms, monitor public funds, prevent embezzlement, and limit the misuse of official positions for personal gain.

It also evaluates efforts to reduce corruption in bureaucratic processes, combat nepotism and favouritism in public appointments, and protect whistleblowers and journalists. Additionally, the index looks at the public’s ability to access information and hold the government accountable.

The CPI does not assess issues like tax fraud, money laundering, financial secrecy, illicit financial flows, or corruption in the private sector.

Rasheed Transparency International – Jordan is a non-profit civil society organisation, established end of 2013, and is the only national chapter of Transparency International in Jordan.

It aims to strengthen the pillars of good governance based on transparency, integrity, accountability, and the rule of law, raise the level of integrity and combat corruption in the public and private sectors and enhance the awareness of individuals from various sectors of the importance of transparency, accountability and reporting on corruption.

It also seeks to enhance the legal and executive frameworks of the national integrity system, through communication cooperating and exchanging experiences with international, regional and national organisations and working to expand the circle of data and information available to citizens.

AMMAN — Prime Minister Jafar Hassan on Tuesday highlighted the strategic importance of the eastern city of Mafraq, citing its diverse economic sectors and its key location on Jordan's borders.

 During a cabinet meeting held in Mafraq and attended by elected council members and civil society representatives, Hassan stressed that the meeting aimed at aligning the governorate's development vision with national priorities, ensuring efficient implementation and optimal use of resources.

Hassan acknowledged that Mafraq has been significantly affected by the influx of Syrian refugees over the past decade. He said Jordan has welcomed the refugees and treated them with dignity, in line with the Kingdom's values and the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah, according to the Jordan News Agency, Petra. 

 He also expressed hope for the safe and voluntary return of refugees to Syria and wished the country peace, stability and prosperity, assuring that Jordan will continue to support its neighbouring country in this process.

The Prime Minister also stressed the government's commitment to increasing investment in the King Hussein bin Talal Development Area, enhancing the competitiveness of industries and improving logistics and transport infrastructure at border crossings.

The government is working to complete a gas supply project for the area by 2027, which will reduce production costs and enhance the competitiveness of local factories, thus attracting more investment, he announced, Petra said. 

Hassan revealed that the government plans to provide 10 megawatts of solar energy to power factories in the King Hussein Development Area, which will help industrial expansion and encourage further investment. In addition, the government has allocated JD1 million this year for the construction of a tunnel on the international road in the Thaghra Al Jab region, with another JD1 million earmarked for its completion next year.

Prior to the Cabinet meeting, Hassan visited several factories in the development area, praising their success and reaffirming the government's commitment to supporting these companies to ensure their continued growth. 

He also announced plans to develop a 200-dunnum public park near Al Bayt University to provide green spaces and recreational facilities for children and families. The Prime Minister thanked the University for donating the land for the park, according to Petra. 

Hassan  noted that Mafraq has made significant strides in agricultural production in recent years, underscoring the government's continued support for the sector, which plays a vital role in economic growth, food security and job creation. He outlined several government initiatives aimed at expanding the food processing industry, supporting cooperatives, and providing training, land and financing opportunities for youth and retirees.

Hassan also addressed the issue of unlicensed wells, announcing that the Cabinet had approved a decision to regulate them. This measure will focus on wells used for agricultural purposes in Mafraq and across the Kingdom, with the Ministry of Water to issue clear guidelines.

The Prime Minister also revealed plans to complete the rehabilitation of the Basalt Basin project, which will increase water supplies by the end of 2026 at an estimated cost of JD14.5 million.

In the health sector, Hassan confirmed that renovation work had begun on the Northern Badia Hospital. He also announced plans to launch a tender this year for the construction of an emergency and trauma unit and new wards at the Mafraq Government Hospital, Petra reported. 

The prime minister mentioned several other ongoing projects in Mafraq in the fields of education, energy, agriculture, health and social protection. He also attended the opening ceremony of the new Greater Mafraq Municipality building, expressing hope that it would be a symbol of improved services for the community.

On regional issues, Hassan reiterated that Jordan remains steadfast, backed by its leadership, people and institutions. "The interests of the Kingdom and its people will always come first. We will continue to take all necessary steps to serve these interests and overcome any challenges under the guidance of His Majesty the King."

AMMAN — Lower House Speaker Ahmad Safadi on Tuesday reiterated that all Jordanians stand united in support of His Majesty King Abdullah's firm opposition to the displacement of Palestinians and his commitment to safeguarding their right to remain on their homeland, fully entitled to their legitimate rights, including the establishment of an independent state.

Welcoming the Jordan Bar Association's (JBA) march in support of the King, Safadi said, "Our stance is crystal clear and firm - we stand firmly behind His Majesty, united as one, alongside our army and security forces. We will not accept any solution at the expense of Jordan".

He went on to say that under the leadership of His Majesty, Jordan has consistently maintained a firm stance on key regional issues, with the Palestinian cause at the forefront. The Kingdom has strongly upheld Hashemite Custodianship over Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem, and has made significant efforts to support the people of Gaza in the face of ongoing aggression.

 Today, he stressed, Jordan remains steadfast in its rejection of any plans to forcibly displace Palestinians.

Similarly, Yahya Abu Aboud, JBA President, expressed the bar's strong and unwavering support for the King's stance, particularly his rejection of any efforts to forcibly transfer the residents of Gaza. 

"We stand united behind His Majesty in strongly opposing any proposals for displacement that seek to undermine the Palestinian cause. Together with the people of Jordan, we will not accept any solutions that come at the expense of the Kingdom," he said.

-His Majesty underlines importance of expanding Jordan-US cooperation building on their strategic partnership

-King highlights Jordan’s efforts to enhance economic growth, advance business, investment environment 

-Governor Healey says Massachusetts looks forward to opening new horizons for economic cooperation with Jordan

-Representatives of Massachusetts companies express interest in enhancing cooperation in university exchange programmes, nuclear research, entrepreneurship, other fields

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah on Monday met with CEOs of companies and heads of universities and higher education institutions in Boston, Massachusetts, to discuss means of building and enhancing partnerships with Jordan.

Jordan’s exports of goods to Massachusetts in 2023 reached nearly $15.3 million, while the Kingdom’s imports from the state reached nearly $7.3 million.

During the meeting, organised by Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, His Majesty highlighted the importance of expanding cooperation between Jordan and the United States, and building on their strategic partnership, according to a Royal Court statement. 

The King pointed to Jordan’s competitive investment environment, noting that the Kingdom’s security and stability have attracted many foreign investments in various sectors.

His Majesty highlighted Jordan’s efforts to enhance economic growth and advance the business and investment environment through economic and administrative modernisation, thus enhancing Jordan’s position as a regional hub for services and entrepreneurship, the statement said. 

The King underscored Jordan’s free trade agreements, its technology and innovation infrastructure, as well as its qualified human capital as factors that enhance its investment and start-up ecosystem.

For her part, Governor Healey said Massachusetts looks forward to opening new horizons for economic cooperation with Jordan.

Massachusetts is a global leader in science, manufacturing, healthcare, innovation, technology, and education.

The meeting included representatives from the fields of healthcare, biotechnology, biosciences, higher education, technology and manufacturing, engineering, energy, and financial services in Massachusetts, which is a hub for international economic partnerships.

Participants included representatives of Massachusetts General Hospital, Biogen, Philips North America, McLean Hospital, Harvard University, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute, GE Vernova, Boston Dynamics, State Street, and International Forest Products.

Representatives of a number of Massachusetts companies and institutions expressed interest in enhancing cooperation with Jordan in university exchange programmes, nuclear research, incubating Jordanian start-ups, and in the fields of medicine, biotechnology, software development, semi-conductors, manufacturing, and automation, according to the statement. 

They also pointed to working with Jordan as a regional hub for storage and logistical services.

Director of the Office of His Majesty Alaa Batayneh, and Jordan’s Ambassador to the United States Dina Kawar attended the meeting.

Prior to the meeting, His Majesty met with Governor Healey, and discussed means of bolstering the deep-rooted ties between Jordan and the US.

AMMAN — Minister of Education Azmi Mahafzah on Monday launched the World Bank-funded "Jordan Pathway: Education, Skills and Administrative Reform" programme, which aims to strengthen education management and improve the quality of services and learning outcomes.

Speaking at the launching ceremony, Mahafzah emphasized the programme's alignment with the Economic Modernisation Vision. "This programme is a critical step in achieving our modernisation goals," according to the Jordan News Agency, Petra.

The $400-million programme focuses on policy reforms, governance development, accountability mechanisms, and investments in human capital to ensure sustainable progress in the education sector.

He thanked Jordan's development partners, particularly the World Bank, for helping to turn this vision into a tangible reality. 

Highlighting key objectives of the Jordan Pathway programme, Mahafzah outlined several "ambitious" goals, including expanding early childhood education to enrol 25,000 additional students in KG2 and improve quality standards in 4,200 classrooms.

The programme, he said, also aims to improve basic learning skills for 150,000 students in early grades, as well as strengthen vocational and technical education with graduating 50,000 students in priority sectors to meet labour market needs.

The minister also said that the programme also pushes towards improving teacher recruitment through hiring 70 per cent of teachers and principals through a new merit-based system to ensure quality education.

Jean-Christophe Carret, World Bank Regional Director for the Middle East, reaffirmed the global lender's commitment to supporting Jordan's education transformation. 

"Jordan will harness the productive potential of its greatest asset - its people, especially youth and women - by strengthening early education and expanding vocational training," Carret said.

AMMAN — Minister of Industry, Trade, and Supply Yarub Qudah on Sunday held talks with his counterparts from Qatar, Faisal Bin Thani Al Thani; Bahrain, Abdulla bin Adel Fakhro; Morocco, Ryad Mezzour; and Turkey, Mehmet Kacır, to strengthen economic ties between Jordan and their respective countries. 

The discussions, aimed at capitalising on available opportunities across various sectors, took place on the sidelines of the fifth meeting of the Higher Committee for the Industrial Partnership for Sustainable Economic Development in Doha.

The ministers focused on boosting bilateral economic cooperation and fostering private sector participation in cross-industry investment partnerships, according to a ministry statement. 

The meeting resulted in the signing of several agreements and the announcement of strategic projects valued at over $2 billion, designed to enhance integration among member states in industries such as metals, pharmaceuticals, and plastics. 

The initiatives aim to foster growth in healthy food production, biotechnology innovation, and the electrical and advanced technology sectors, the statement added. 

During the discussions, Qudah emphasised Jordan's continuous efforts to strengthen the capacity of its industrial institutions, in line with His Majesty King Abdullah's vision and the active involvement of private sector stakeholders. 

These efforts include the adoption of modern production techniques, the efficient utilisation of raw materials and the exploration of new opportunities for sustainable development.