Between Theory and Practice: Political Modernization in Jordan (2021-2024)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35516/Hum.2026.11934Keywords:
Jordan, political modernization, political reform, democratic transition, Royal Committee to Modernize the Political System.Abstract
Objectives: This study aims to analyze the distinctiveness of the Royal Committee to Modernize the Political System, established by Royal will in 2021, and the recommendations it issued, as a critical milestone in Jordan's political reform path, compared to previous initiatives. It also examines the impact of the Committee’s outcomes, current challenges to democratic transition, and future scenarios for political modernization. The study further proposes mechanisms to benefit from the theoretical frameworks of political modernization and democratic transition, in a way that aligns with Jordan’s unique context and supports democratic progress.
Methods: The study adopts historical and descriptive-analytical approaches to trace the evolution of political reform in Jordan. It analyzes historical records, official documents, and academic sources to assess the reforms’ nature and their impact on the political landscape.
Results: The findings indicate that the Royal Committee represents a qualitative shift in Jordan’s reform trajectory, characterized by a unique political context, broad and diverse membership, and relatively effective implementation of its recommendations, compared to previous efforts. Nevertheless, persistent political, economic, social, and cultural challenges continue to hinder full democratic transformation.
Conclusions: Achieving the Committee’s goals requires ongoing and intensified efforts. The study underscores the importance of building on the accomplishments of the first phase and utilizing lessons learned to strengthen democratic practice. As political modernization constitutes Jordan’s most realistic path toward democratization, the study calls for a context-sensitive hybrid approach that draws from both modernization and transition theories to guide future reform.
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