المستخلص: |
The Middle East Studies Center held a seminar titled Reform in Jordan: Popular Demands vs. Political Will where scholars and politicians discussed the issue under the chairmanship of former Prime Minister Ahmed Obeidat. The seminar highlighted three themes: 1-Popular Demands in Various Reform Aspects 2-Political Reform: Theory and Practice 3-Chances for Success of Political Reform Participants agreed that what the people are demanding arc not mere claims, but legitimate rights based on specific priorities. They want an end to the domination of the security forces over the political and civil life of the country. However, the major problem is the wide gap between peoples' demands, government promises and the reality on the ground that witnesses no serious attempts at genuine reform but instead procrastination. Although several committees have been formed during the current wave of protests, they have not managed to take any single practical step. There are even people within these committees who reject and resist reform. How could such people come up with results satisfactory to the Jordanian people, it is wondered? Upon discussing chances for its success in the Kingdom, an initial assessment of the interaction between those that want reform and those in power indicate that this is a golden opportunity to achieve comprehensive long-term political stability in the country. The regime’s political constitutes the touchstone in the reform process. Jordan will definitely be regionally and internationally stronger when its national unity and social coherence are enhanced within a developed, pluralistic and democratic system which serves all its citizens.
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