Building Awareness and Community Peace in Jordan
Dr. Faisal Ahmad Al-Sarhan – Arab Open University – Jordan
Building awareness and community peace is a fundamental pillar for establishing stable and cohesive societies. In Jordan, this foundation is reflected in state policies, programs by civil society institutions, and official and security efforts aimed at instilling values of coexistence and mutual respect.
Jordanian society is characterized by its cultural and religious diversity, which presents both challenges and opportunities. His Majesty King Abdullah II has taken upon himself the mission of building the Jordanian individual, upholding the value of law, respecting diversity, promoting dialogue, and making community peace a central theme in all state policies, as well as a core component in royal addresses and national and humanitarian initiatives.
The Jordanian state, through all its branches and based on this noble message, recognizes the importance of enhancing awareness as a means to address security, social, and economic challenges. Therefore, its official agencies, in partnership with civil society organizations, have continued to launch awareness and educational programs that promote concepts of citizenship, social justice, and the rejection of extremism and fragmentation.
The role of universities and higher education institutions is pivotal in developing critical awareness, a culture of dialogue, and acceptance of others. This is achieved by creating an open academic environment that encourages research and community participation, thereby embedding human values through curricula and various extracurricular activities.
The Jordanian Armed Forces and security agencies, alongside their role in protecting national security, undertake the mission of spreading awareness and enhancing belonging through educational campaigns, participation in development initiatives, and defending shared national values. They play a prominent and advanced role in confronting hate speech and extremism by coordinating with media, educational, and religious institutions.
Additionally, youth and community initiatives are effective tools in promoting a culture of peace by launching dialogue and voluntary activities that enhance cooperation and solidarity. Building awareness and community peace in our beloved country is a collective national responsibility, integrating the efforts of the state, educational institutions, civil society, and security agencies to establish a safe and cohesive society. Community peace is only built when every individual believes they have a role and responsibility towards their community. It begins at home, moves to school, then to university, and becomes the culture of an entire nation.