Transnational interdependency and healthcare system change: The role of humanitarian and development aid in shaping health policy in Jordan

Abstract

This article examines the role of external financing as a form of transnational economic interdependency in shaping healthcare system change in Jordan. More specifically, this exploratory study traces the trajectory of Jordan’s healthcare policy such as regards public financing, investment in infrastructure, and policy priorities – especially, efforts at universalism and health as a human right – over the years 2008–2018. During this period of observation, the Jordanian healthcare system was subject to various exogenous shocks in the form of recurrent and large influxes of refugees from Iraq and Syria. Regarded as a crisis, the growing presence of the refugee population introduced a significant increase in humanitarian and development aid that brought with it resources for both the displaced and host populations. This study examines whether increased external financing in the form of overseas development aid necessarily translates into healthcare system expansion for both citizens and refugees. This article will contribute to filling the gap in knowledge and understanding of the complex interdependencies which influence the evolution of healthcare policies in a country not only affected by an ongoing refugee crisis, but also at the geopolitical crossroads of international interests in the Middle East region.