Workshop “The pivotal role of political parties in the process of democratic transition”

       In cooperation with the European Union delegation in Jordan, the Institute of Politics and Society held a workshop entitled “The pivotal role of political parties in the process of democratic transition” at the Prince Hassan Cultural Center in the city of Karak, the workshop discussed the future opportunities for building a democratic transition model in which parties play a key role, with the participation of political, cultural and youth activities.
The workshop aimed to discuss the form of the hoped-for democratic transition in light of the outcomes of the Royal Committee, in order to establish a new path in Jordanian political life, the participants discussed whether the bet in the next phase on the success of the political modernization project is related to the development and activation of partisan life, what is the role of the new generation, and what are the chances of reaching partisan parliamentary governments after ten years, and the extent to which this reflects on the project of political modernization or democratic transformation.

The workshop discussed understanding the Jordanian political parties’ perceptions of the obstacles to citizens’ participation in political and partisan life, their vision of the political environment required to enhance participation, and how to overcome obstacles to partisan political action.

The workshop aimed to disseminate awareness of the importance of partisan and political work and activity, for those who are afraid to engage in it, through dialogue with elite politicians, partisans, and specialists. Former Minister Samih Al-Maaytah spoke about the outcomes of the Royal Committee related to the Parties Committee and how they are reflected on the ground. While a member of parliament Omar Al-Ayasra spoke about the Jordanian parties’ vision of the current reality of political participation, the shape of the political environment, and the obstacles and challenges that prevent participation in party work. Meanwhile, Eng. Hussein Al-Sarayrah discussed policies, programs, projects, and opportunities to participate in the political process, as well as the role of parties in developing policies and placing them on executable time plans.
In turn, the head of the Youth Committee of the Royal Committee for the Modernization of the Political System, the Institute’s academic advisor, Dr. Muhammad Abu Rumman that the next phase requires a positive and healthy engagement with the political space through parties capable of renewing their programs and tools to attract popular bases to them. Meanwhile, the Executive Director of the Institute, Dr. Rasha Al-Fityan, indicated that the Institute seeks, through the partnership with the European Union, to intensify activities aimed at reaching broad national understandings on issues that concern Jordanians and achieving the aspirations of Jordanians at all levels.
This workshop is part of a series of workshops held by the Institute in cooperation with the European Union Delegation in different governorates aimed at disseminating awareness of the outputs of the Royal Committee for the Modernization of the Political System and knowing the opinions of citizens on various issues of concern to Jordanian public opinion.