Local Brainstorming Session
24, July 2000
Narrative Report

Held on 24/7/2000, this session had three objectives: first, to introduce the Center locally and to promote the concept of Human Security. Secondly, to identity the issues threatening human security in Jordan. Thirdly, to identify people and organizations in the Region who deal with these issues.

In their respective positions, all the participants expressed their willingness to co-operate with the Center by providing it with information and expertise.

The participants also compiled a list of issues threatening human security in Jordan. Among these issues are the following:

• Unemployment and the absence of job opportunities in white collar professions.
• Child labour.
• Domestic abuse.
• Drug trafficking and addiction. It was stated that whereas Jordan was previously a port of entry for drugs, it is now becoming an actual home.
• The alarming number of deaths due to traffic accidents.
• Gender issues.
• The deaths resulting from the use of small arms by civilians.
• Honour killings.
• The proliferation of "imported crimes" due to the flood of imported labour.
• Poverty and the decline in the Jordanian per capita income.

In discussing such issues, the majority of participants expressed frustration at the scarcity of empirical studies and statistics providing a comprehensive and true picture of the situation in Jordan.