Amman, May 8 (Petra) – Minister of Political and Parliamentary Affairs Abdul Moneim Odat on Thursday launched the "Enhancing Youth Participation in Political Life" program, aimed at empowering young men and women across the Kingdom’s governorates to engage more actively in political processes.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Odat underscored the unwavering commitment of His Majesty King Abdullah II and Crown Prince Al Hussein to supporting youth, describing them as the cornerstone of Jordan’s progress.

He noted that the political modernization project constitutes a fundamental shift in Jordan’s political landscape and is part of the broader comprehensive development drive aligned with the state's second centennial.

Odat stressed that the government is adopting an approach rooted in direct communication with all societal groups and sectors, in line with principles of good governance based on participation, integrity, and accountability.

He said the initiative is part of the ministry’s 2024–2028 strategic plan and stems from the national belief in the importance of empowering youth to lead in all areas of development. He added that participation in political life and party platforms allows young people to express their aspirations and influence decision-making related to their future.

Odat highlighted the importance of raising national awareness and protecting the country’s social cohesion amid current challenges, including external attempts to undermine Jordan’s internal stability due to its steadfast stance on the Palestinian cause. He reaffirmed Jordan’s unwavering position in supporting just Arab and Islamic causes, especially the right of the Palestinian people to establish an independent state on their national soil.

He also underlined Jordan’s commitment to defending Islamic and Christian holy sites under the Hashemite custodianship and to safeguarding the lives of the people of Gaza.

For his part, Minister of Youth Yazan Shdeifat said the continued implementation of the program for the third consecutive year reflects the Ministry of Youth’s dedication to the recommendations of the Political Modernization System and its focus on involving youth in decision-making.

He described youth political empowerment as a national priority, implemented through initiatives drawn from the core pillars of the National Youth Strategy, including youth engagement, security and community peace, citizenship, good governance, and the rule of law. Shdeifat added that recent political legislation has opened the door for youth to participate more effectively in political life.

A dialogue session followed the launch, featuring Secretary-General of the Ministry of Political and Parliamentary Affairs Ali Khawaldeh and Secretary-General of the Ministry of Youth Mazen Abu Bakr. They discussed mechanisms to encourage youth participation in political parties and decision-making and emphasized the importance of promoting democratic values, respect for differing views, and cultivating a mature political culture based on legal awareness and constructive engagement in the modernization process.

Participating youth presented various initiatives aimed at enhancing political awareness, boosting youth roles in political parties, and activating party-related activities within universities.

The program will include 30 training sessions held at youth centers across Jordan’s governorates, targeting participants aged 18 to 30.

//Petra// AJ

08/05/2025 15:03:11