jordan pulse -

Al-Majali Writes: Prioritizing What Matters Most for the Government
By Nidhal Al-Majali 

The pressing issue for Jordan today lies in its internal reality: the causes, effects, and their impact across all sectors of daily life. But even more critical is how we address this reality, mitigate its harms, and build resilience for the future. This is what deserves to be emphasized above all. While other matters shouldn't be dismissed or overlooked, we won’t be able to effectively tackle them without making these core priorities the foundation of our efforts and genuine willpower.

What matters is a decent life for every Jordanian. But more critical is the availability of employment opportunities and adequate income. While the minimum wage has been set at 260 dinars, an actual decent life requires no less than 700 dinars. With rising costs and endless service expenses, these income disparities are felt by all. Quality education also matters, but the real question is how to achieve it when dissatisfaction with school and university standards is common, even among those paying thousands for private education. Health services must be enhanced, yet access to medical care should be available to everyone. It’s vital to have specialized doctors and advanced healthcare services not just in Amman but also in rural and remote areas so that citizens don’t need to travel to the capital for trusted treatment.

The list of needs and priorities is extensive. Choosing and arranging these priorities is the path to resilience and readiness for any future challenges. The task calls for experts who not only know how to prioritize but who understand the country’s interests and aren’t driven by personal or institutional agendas. National unity and security stand at the top of our priorities, but this requires a genuine alignment of citizens' values and interests, with a shared vision that sees Jordan as the ultimate haven, free from divisions or self-interest.

Our nation deserves a clear definition of priorities and a committed effort to achieve them. The economic, administrative, and political modernization visions are significant pillars of Jordan’s future, with priorities set and plans underway, yet the critical question remains: have citizens, particularly the majority, started feeling the benefits of these visions? The answer will come from the people seeking employment, quality education, and accessible healthcare. It will not be credible if it comes from a specialized research center or a minister’s scripted response.