POLITICAL REFORM IN JORDAN: Reality and Aspirations

Abstract

This article offers a comprehensive review of the process of political reform in Jordan under the reign of King Hussein and King Abdullah II from 1989 to the present. It also identifies obstacles to political reform. Main findings include that political reform in Jordan is an old and popular demand, and that the process of political reform in the country has made some achievements. However, these achievements have not been enough to push real and lasting reforms forward. The study presents a number of policy recommendations. The most notable concern is the need for further constitutional amendments to consolidate the democratic principle of “sovereignty of the people,” reduce the executive authority’s access to other authorities, and reconsider the laws governing political life, to build a state ruled by law and institutions, to establish a society of justice and equality, and to overcome the instabilities manifested in the Arab Spring.