AMMAN, JORDAN – Under the framework of CLOSER – Connecting LOcal proximity networks Sustaining participatory govERnance, the Arab Renaissance for Democracy and Development (ARDD) convened the inaugural meeting of the CLOSER–Jordan Local Proximity Network on 6 July 2026.
Building on the experience of the Future of Jabal Amman Committee, the network positions Jabal Amman as a pilot site for exploring participatory governance approaches that strengthen cooperation between local communities, public institutions, civil society, academia, and the private sector.
The initiative seeks to establish practical mechanisms for dialogue, collective action, and shared decision-making, while supporting more inclusive and responsive approaches to urban development and local governance.
Reflecting its collaborative and multi-sectoral character, the network brings together representatives from public and municipal institutions, civil society organisations, academia, international organisations, local communities, and the private and cultural sectors.
Participants include representatives from the Greater Amman Municipality, the Ministry of Local Administration, the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, UN-Habitat, the German Jordanian University, the Jabal Amman Residents Association, Habibi Association, and local community representatives. The network also includes H.E. Michael Nazzal, Al-Zoumorodah for Artifacts, Jabal Amman Publishers, and Leaders of Tomorrow through its Souq Fann platform.
This diverse composition reflects a shared recognition that sustainable urban development depends on partnerships that connect institutional mandates and technical expertise with community knowledge, local experience, and civic leadership.
During the inaugural meeting, members discussed an initial roadmap focused on identifying and exchanging local and regional good practices, strengthening cooperation among participating stakeholders, and exploring how effective community-led governance approaches may be adapted within their respective institutions and local contexts.
Commenting on the launch, Eng. Malak Suleiman, CLOSER Project Manager at ARDD, said:
“The CLOSER–Jordan Local Proximity Network aims to contribute to the development of locally driven governance models that place communities at the centre of urban planning and public policy, while generating practical lessons that can inform broader efforts toward participatory and decentralized development in Jordan and the wider region.”
Through the network, ARDD seeks to support sustainable neighbourhood-level models in Jabal Amman while contributing evidence and practical experience that may inform participatory governance efforts in other areas of Jordan and across the Mediterranean region.
About CLOSER
CLOSER – Connecting LOcal proximity networks Sustaining participatory govERnance is funded by the Interreg NEXT MED Programme and implemented by partners from Jordan, Palestine, Lebanon, Italy, Spain, and Greece.
The project aims to strengthen participatory governance by fostering collaboration between local authorities, civil society organisations, and communities to co-create inclusive public spaces and sustainable, locally led development policies.
