In Jordan, the population below age 15 constitutes 40.2% of total population, nearly 23% are in the 15-24 age group. This situation poses considerable challenges for Jordan’s government and civil society in meeting the education, training, employment, health, and recreation needs of the young.

The Jordan Human Development Report 2000, issued by UNDP and Ministry of Planning, succinctly described the salient feature of Jordanian society when it noted, “Youth are – and will long remain – a defining characteristic of Jordanian society and economy”.

The development of the Jordanian youth sector is a major societal endeavor requiring the involvement of many partners, and engaging them on a multitude of levels. The complexity of this task puts the heavy coordinating and implementing burdens on the different partners. The “Jordan First” document for socio-economic and political development in Jordan, which was launched in 2002 by a royal decree, emphasized the role of youth in the future of the country. The Higher Council for Youth has a central role to play in this context.

UNDP will provide technical assistance aiming at the institutional building of the Higher Council for Youth and the National Youth and Sports Fund through the preparation and adoption of a national strategy for youth and a fund strategy. It will also assist in the review of the legislation that will consequently strengthen the basis of an effective Higher Council for Youth and Youth Fund.

The project will enable the Youth Centers and the Fund to be attuned to present socio economic demands of youth and it will establish a Unit at the Fund capable of providing advice on investment decisions. It will also provide the needed international and national expertise and enhance information and experience sharing as well as networking.

For further information please contact Mr. Firas Gharaibeh