Amman, Aug. 5 (Petra) – A recent survey conducted by the Center for Strategic Studies at the University of Jordan revealed that 72% of Jordanians believe the country is heading in a positive direction, while 26% expressed a contrary view.
The poll, which addressed key national and regional issues, found that unemployment and youth job creation remain the top public concerns, cited by 49% of respondents. Other priorities included economic reform (11%), improving public services such as health and education (11%), and addressing the rising cost of living (11%).
Regarding recent government decisions, 58% supported the dissolution of municipal and provincial councils and the appointment of interim committees, whereas 29% opposed the move. On the upcoming local elections, 44% stated they would definitely participate, 14% said they would likely participate, and 40% expressed reluctance to vote.
When asked about the government’s decision to reduce taxes on passenger vehicles, 72% said they were aware of the policy, and 52% of them believed it served public interests, while 24% saw it as serving government interests. Furthermore, 79% believed the decision would encourage citizens to purchase new vehicles.
On political stability, 97% of Jordanians said security in the Kingdom is stable, including 57% who described it as “completely stable.” However, 57% viewed the regional political environment as unstable.
The Palestinian cause remains a central issue for 73% of Jordanians, especially in light of recent developments. Additionally, 70% expressed support for the ceasefire between Iran and Israel, while 58% believed recent escalations have negatively impacted regional security.
In response to potential Iranian-Israeli escalations, 91% supported enhancing Jordan’s defense capabilities. During the conflict, 55% said the sirens had no psychological effect, while 43% reported feelings of anxiety and fear.
The survey also noted that 62% followed civil defense instructions during the crisis, and 12% took precautionary measures in anticipation of a possible regional war. Eighty-nine percent reported witnessing missiles or drones during the incident.
Domestically, 63% of Jordanians rely primarily on social media for news, followed by television (27%), and friends and family (5%).
On the recent amendments to the Enforcement Law regarding debtor imprisonment, 66% of Jordanians were aware of the changes. Of those, 58% supported the amendments to varying degrees, while 41% opposed them.
Concerning community safety, 86% reported feeling secure in their neighborhoods. Drug prevalence emerged as a significant concern, with 55% saying it is widespread, particularly among youth aged 18–25, followed by adolescents aged 13–17 (25%).
Regarding the alcohol poisoning incident last month, 39% blamed regulatory authorities, 33% the manufacturing plant, and 20% the individuals who consumed the alcohol. While 60% said government action was timely and appropriate, 27% felt the response was delayed and insufficient.
Trust in regulatory institutions remains high, with 93% expressing confidence in Public Security, 73% in the Ministry of Health, and 71% in the Jordan Food and Drug Administration to prevent similar incidents in the future.
//Petra// AJ
05/08/2025 19:39:51
