Jordan is regularly seen as a stable beacon in the Middle East. At the same time, it is a country that faces many difficulties. Jordan accommodates many refugees from the region, is struggling economically and is also suffering from climate change. In this programme we speak with the Dutch ambassador in Amman, Barbara Joziasse, and journalist editor at the Sana’a Center for Strategic Studies Hannah Patchett.
Despite its seemingly quiet reputation, Jordan is in a very difficult position. Since the outbreak of the war in Syria, many Syrians have fled the border, towards Jordan. There are now an estimated 660,000 to a million Syrians living in Jordan. In addition, the country is suffering economically. After major tax reforms, former prime minister Hani Mulki stepped down in June 2018 following large-scale popular protests. Finally, citizens and refugees in Jordan are struggling with a crisis related to climate change: drought. It is possible that in 2025 the country will be without water.
What is the role of the Netherlands in Jordan? We talk with Barbara Joziasse about her work as ambassador in Amman. The Netherlands is involved in Jordan in several ways. We contribute to the EU-Jordan Compact and the EU Madad-fund, to deal with the refugee crisis and support the country. What impact do these agreements have on the difficulties currently being faced by Jordanian citizens and Syrian refugees? Barbara Joziasse will talk to Hannah Patchett, journalist and editor at the Sana’a Center for Strategic Studies.
Onze Man / Vrouw in
This program is part of the Onze Man / Vrouw in… series, a series in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in which the experiences of a Dutch Ambassador in a country from the MENA region are discussed. In previous editions the ambassadors of Yemen, Morocco, Iran and Sudan talked about their work and life. An edition with the Dutch ambassador in Iraq will follow in February.
On december the 2nd, we spoke with Barbara Joziasse about why the Netherlands finds it so important to be present in Jordan. Read it here
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