Geostrategic Media Political Commentary, Analysis, Security, Defense
Eng. Saleem Al Batayneh
The proposed changes to Jordan’s public sector human resources system pose a grave threat to the very fabric of the Jordanian state. This misguided effort represents a systematic recipe for the dismantling of the country’s institutions and the unraveling of social and economic justice.
At the heart of the matter is a fundamental misunderstanding of the role of the public sector and its employees. Public sector workers are not a burden to be discarded, but rather the backbone of Jordanian society – a legitimate and integral part of the national fabric, not a “bastard” to be cast aside. These individuals, many of whom hail from the country’s villages, deserts and camps, have dedicated their lives to serving their homeland. To now see their hopes and aspirations so callously disregarded is a travesty.
The proposed human resources system reeks of classism and elitism, favoring the children of the wealthy and well-connected over the deserving masses. It is a blatant attempt to consolidate power in the hands of the ruling classes, empowering a select few at the expense of the common good. This is a direct affront to the principles of justice and equality that should underpin any just society.
Sadly, the Jordanian government appears deaf to the cries of its people. Unwilling to heed the advice of experts and civil society, they press forward with this disastrous plan, as if the only colors in the Jordanian rainbow are black and white. This stubbornness in the face of widespread opposition is a dangerous sign of a leadership disconnected from the realities on the ground.
The consequences of this misguided policy will be far-reaching and devastating. The psychological and social toll on public sector employees, already facing a crisis of confidence in their government, will be immense. A demoralized and disillusioned workforce is a recipe for societal instability, as these individuals, the very “safety valve” for the state, are left feeling abandoned and betrayed.
The path forward is clear, but it requires true political courage and a willingness to embrace meaningful reform. Malaysia’s example, where comprehensive reforms were undertaken decades ago, stands as a testament to the power of intellectual honesty and a commitment to justice. Jordan must follow suit, or risk descending into the abyss of chaos and crisis, a victim of its own myopic policies.
The time for real change is now. The Jordanian government must heed the warnings of its people and reject this dangerous human resources system. Only then can the country truly embark on the path of genuine, lasting reform – one that upholds the rights and dignity of all Jordanians, not just the privileged few. The future of the nation depends on it.
Eng. Al Batayneh was a member of the Jordanian Parliament.
