The Shari’a is largely irrelevant to most important issues of policy and administration in the economy and in government. Its historical and symbolic locus is on family and sexuality: patriarchal rights, segregation of the sexes, enforced female modesty.
Jordan’s parliamentary elections were far from perfect, but a process has commenced that places an important first building block in the reform process.
Jordan’s elections do not signal a shift towards a more open political system. They may provide a platform for opposition groups or usher in a weak government.
On December 10, a resolution that read, ‘This House believes Jordan is on the brink of serious political turmoil and unrest’, was passed by a narrow majority of 54%. The debate will be televised on December 19.
Jordan's allies have turned up the heat. The kettle is whistling, but has not boiled over.
The fact that such a harmless video could cause such ramifications is disappointing.
There is a fine line between jihadist and freedom fighter. In Jordan, we call it “the national border”.
Yes, protests have increased since the Arab Awakening, but the monarchy has its finger right on the pulse.
Reforms in Jordan have been a carrot on a stick, and the country is weathering what some are calling a “regional storm”. The saving grace of the King is that his time in office has so far been bloodless.
This year, the winds have also brought with them into Jordan an influx of refugees from Syria.
Jordan probably won’t censor its internet. But just the fact that it is still trying is extremely disappointing.
Whichever side of the debate one is on, it is clear that Jordan cannot afford to remain idle in the face of such an explosive environment. Jordan has often played the role of mediator, as well as host to refugees.
