Amman: The Jordan Economic Forum held a session as part of its "Economic Salon" program titled "Refugees in Jordan: Between Economic Impact and the Responsibility of International Partnership," hosting UNHCR Representative to Jordan Maria Stavropoulou.
According to Jordan News Agency, the session was attended by Forum Deputy Chairman Mazen Hamoud, members of the board of directors, and the general assembly. The forum highlighted Jordan's significant economic, social, and service-related responsibilities due to hosting refugees. It urged donor countries and organizations to fulfill their commitments toward refugees in the Kingdom and support a sustainable international partnership that benefits host communities. This partnership would enable Jordan to continue providing humanitarian support while facilitating conditions for the voluntary, safe, and organized return of refugees to their home countries.
Stavropoulou acknowledged Jordan's pivotal role in receiving refugees and offering protection, particularly in recent decades. She emphasized that the Kingdom has consistently demonstrated values linked to humanitarian protection, dignity, and human rights respect. Stavropoulou noted that Jordan's approach aligns with the values emphasized by His Majesty King Abdullah II, especially at a time when international commitment to asylum and humanitarian protection faces challenges.
Jordan's integration of refugees into public education, healthcare, and some social services at an early stage was highlighted as a strategic move, avoiding the establishment of separate costly humanitarian systems. Stavropoulou pointed out that Jordan's policies have significantly contributed to improving refugees' living conditions and provided the international community with valuable lessons shared with other refugee-hosting nations.
Discussing education, Stavropoulou mentioned that refugee children registered with UNHCR and possessing the necessary documents can enroll in Jordanian public schools. She acknowledged that issues in this area are generally localized and often stem from unclear procedures or instructions at certain school administrations.
In terms of healthcare, refugees access services equivalent to those available to uninsured Jordanian citizens. Although these services are not entirely free, they are supported by multi-donor funds from international partners, which aid the Jordanian health system in managing additional pressures.
Stavropoulou highlighted the decline in humanitarian and development assistance as a significant current challenge, noting that reduced funding has impacted UN agencies and humanitarian organizations, affecting the services and assistance provided to refugees. She emphasized that the economic impact of refugees should be assessed not only based on pressures on resources and infrastructure but also considering their contributions to production, consumption, and the labor market.
Hamoud remarked that Jordan's experience in hosting refugees serves as a model for other countries, combining international support, employment opportunities, increased exports, and efforts to enhance refugees' self-reliance.