In Jordan’s Election, Unemployment, Rather Than Gaza, Is on Voters’ Minds

Jordan recently held parliamentary elections, and while many expected the ongoing conflict in Gaza to be a major issue for voters, it was actually the country’s high unemployment rate that was at the forefront of people’s minds.

Jordan has been facing a significant economic downturn in recent years, with unemployment rates hovering around 24%. This has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has led to job losses and economic hardship for many Jordanians.

With unemployment being such a pressing issue, it’s no surprise that voters were more focused on economic issues rather than the conflict in Gaza. Many Jordanians are struggling to make ends meet and provide for their families, and they are looking to their elected representatives to help address these challenges.

The elections saw a turnout of around 29%, with many voters expressing frustration with the government’s handling of the economy. In particular, the government’s decision to raise taxes and cut subsidies has been unpopular among many Jordanians, who feel that they are bearing the brunt of the economic crisis.

In response to these concerns, many candidates in the election focused their campaigns on economic issues, promising to create jobs, boost the economy, and improve living conditions for ordinary Jordanians. This shift in focus highlights the deep economic challenges facing the country and the urgent need for solutions to address them.

While the conflict in Gaza is always a sensitive issue in Jordan, it seems that the immediate economic concerns of voters took precedence in this election. As the newly elected parliament takes office, it will be crucial for them to prioritize economic reforms and policies that will help alleviate the high unemployment rates and improve the quality of life for all Jordanians. Only by addressing these economic challenges can the government hope to regain the trust and support of the people.