Mexico’s Tunnels and Britain’s Electronic Visa Revive Hopes for a Better Future for Jordanian Youth

Eng. Saleem Al Batayneh

Mexico’s tunnels and Britain’s electronic visa system have emerged as beacons of hope for Jordanian youth seeking a better life and a more dignified tomorrow. As the current reality in Jordan fails to offer opportunities and prosperity, many young Jordanians are embarking on perilous journeys, driven by desperation and a longing for a brighter future.
The dire condition of Jordanian youth is an undeniable truth that cannot be ignored. The syndrome of poverty and unemployment has reached tragic proportions, leaving the younger generation with little to lose. The streets of Jordan are filled with despair and misery, pushing many to consider immigration as their only salvation.
The words of former American ambassador to Amman, Alice Wells, resonate deeply. When speaking with Jordanian youth, they express their desire to leave their homeland in search of better lives and employment opportunities. The national songs and rhetoric of patriotism cannot fill the void created by the absence of basic necessities and prospects for a prosperous future.
The indicators are alarming, painting a bleak picture of increasing poverty and unemployment in Jordan. The nation finds itself chasing after its own youth, who are forced to navigate British airports and Mexican tunnels in pursuit of a better life. The sense of belonging and connection to the state is waning, replaced by a feeling of being outside the political equations and global distance. The internal scene in Jordan is characterized by anxiety and trauma, yet it seems that the gravity of the situation is not fully acknowledged or understood.
Conversations about responsibility and accountability permeate every aspect of Jordanian society. The deterioration of the current situation and the absence of viable solutions leave the youth disillusioned and questioning the reasons behind their worsening conditions. Unemployment serves as a form of social exclusion, devastating entire generations in Jordan. Disappointment has become the only reward for the children of this generation, as the state fails to effectively manage their affairs and fulfill their aspirations.
The state’s political bankruptcy and prolonged development vacuum have left the youth exhausted and yearning for answers. Their dreams remain unfulfilled, as they are sold illusions and promises of an unseen future. Jordan faces imminent dangers, and the lack of adequate solutions exacerbates the threat. The importance of human capital for development cannot be overstated, yet the continuous brain drain risks plunging Jordan into a state of despair and self-loathing.
It is disheartening to witness the plight of Jordanian youth, with few finding contentment within their own country. The silent and secret suffering that empties Jordan of its vitality demands attention. As a society, we must not turn a blind eye or deaf ear to the bleeding that is slowly draining Jordan of its potential.
The traditional labor market in Jordan falls short of meeting the demands of job seekers, leaving the vast majority frustrated and disillusioned. It is crucial to question the trajectory we are on and seek viable alternatives. If we fail to find answers, we risk plunging further into the abyss. The media’s portrayal of the situation often presents only half the truth, leaving the other half subject to manipulation and agenda-setting.
It is time for Jordan to recognize the urgency of the situation and prioritize the needs of its youth. Efforts should be made to create an environment conducive to economic growth, innovation, and job creation. Investing in education and vocational training programs can equip young Jordanians with the skills needed to thrive in a changing economy. Furthermore, the government should focus on fostering an entrepreneurial ecosystem that encourages innovation and supports small businesses.
International cooperation is also essential in addressing the challenges faced by Jordanian youth. Partnerships with countries like Mexico and Britain, as exemplified by the tunnels and electronic visa system, can provide opportunities for legal and safe migration. This would offer young Jordanians a chance to pursue their dreams while contributing to the development of both their host countries and their homeland.
Mexico’s tunnels and Britain’s electronic visa system may represent glimmers of hope for Jordanian youth, but they should not be seen as long-term solutions. The real solution lies in addressing the root causes of the challenges faced by Jordanian youth and creating an inclusive and prosperous society that values its human capital. Only then can we ensure a better life and a more dignified tomorrow for the young generation of Jordanians.

Al Batayneh was a member of the Jordanian Parliament