ARDD Featured in the Legal Aid Services Map for Women in Jordan
As part of ongoing efforts to enhance women’s access to legal aid services and raise awareness about service providers, their geographic distribution, the types of services offered, and the target groups, the Jordanian National Commission for Women launched the Legal Aid Services Map for Women in Jordan on Tuesday, May 27, 2025. The map includes 12 specialized organizations, among them the Arab Renaissance for Democracy and Development (ARDD). Launched under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Basma Bint Talal, and developed in collaboration with the Justice Center for Legal Aid and with support from the Government of Cyprus, the initiative falls within the framework of the project “Raising Community Awareness on Legal Aid Services.” The map provides information on services such as legal consultation, court representation, accompaniment to official institutions, mediation, and self-representation. It was developed based on focus group discussions, field research, and a review of relevant legislation. In her opening remarks, Her Royal Highness highlighted that “empowering women to access legal aid contributes to upholding justice and fairness, safeguarding constitutionally protected rights, and promoting social justice.” The launch event was attended by representatives from government institutions, civil society organizations, project partners, Cypriot Ambassador to Jordan Sivas Aviedizian, members of Parliament, the National Family Protection Team, and the Commission’s legal team. Representing ARDD, Legal Consultant, Adv. Rami Qwaider stressed the importance of intensifying efforts to remove barriers and ensure that legal services are inclusive and equitable, especially for vulnerable groups. He emphasized that ARDD prioritizes improving access to legal aid services for women of all nationalities—both Jordanians and refugees—by offering legal support, building the capacity of service providers, and developing innovative tools that facilitate access to legal information. Engineer Maha Ali, Secretary-General of the Commission, noted that the launch of the map is part of broader national efforts to strengthen women’s access to justice, in alignment with the National Strategy for Women 2020–2025. Concluding the event, JNCW announced the launch of a dedicated section for the map on its digital platform “Know More!”, where users can find information on legal aid providers across Jordan’s governorates, the types of services offered, and how to get in touch with them.
“She Leads” Program Hosts Awareness Session in Egypt on TFGBV
As part of the “She Leads” program implemented by the Arab Renaissance for Democracy and Development (ARDD), the Egyptian Female Lawyers Foundation for Women’s Rights, in cooperation with the Housing Committee of Agouza District, organized an awareness session addressing the dangers of harassment and online blackmail against women and girls. The event, held at the Ard El Lewa Youth Center in Giza, brought together 30 women and girls from the local community. The session was designed based on an advocacy plan developed by participants in the She Leads program. It aimed to raise awareness of the increasing threats of child harassment and cyber extortion, provide preventive measures, and promote safe internet practices. The event also served as a platform for discussing legal protections and reporting mechanisms available under Egyptian law. Heba Adel, cassation lawyer and Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Egyptian Female Lawyers Foundation, opened the session with an overview of the She Leads program and its objectives in empowering young women. She highlighted several community initiatives developed through the program and elaborated on the legal dimensions of harassment and the importance of accessible reporting channels. Program participants Rehab Ehab and Nora Adel led a discussion on the various forms and symptoms of harassment, offering practical strategies for prevention and intervention. They also provided a detailed explanation of online blackmail and its link to digital harassment. Wissam Ibrahim, a lawyer at the Giza branch of the National Council for Women, discussed legal procedures and judicial avenues for addressing harassment cases. She stressed the importance of ensuring legal support for survivors. Rita Naguib, a member of the National Council for Women and the Agouza Housing Committee, highlighted the need for inclusive awareness efforts, particularly the integration of persons with disabilities in anti-harassment initiatives. She also introduced key services provided by the National Council for Women and the National Council for Disability Affairs, including guidance on obtaining integrated service cards for individuals with disabilities. Participants concluded the session by calling for continued support for women and girls across Giza and the expansion of community-led initiatives to combat harassment and cyber threats. They emphasized the importance of making reliable information and support services readily available. The She Leads program seeks to promote gender justice and equal representation in decision-making through targeted capacity-building efforts. These include enhancing access to education, skill development, political participation, advocacy, and meaningful engagement, while adopting a collaborative and inclusive approach at both regional and international levels.
Season’s Market (Third Edition) – the Spring Bazaar: A Shared Platform Connecting Jordanians and Refugees to Showcase Products and Expand Market Access
As part of its ongoing efforts to address the challenges faced by entrepreneurs from both the local community and refugee populations, the Arab Renaissance for Democracy and Development (ARDD), in collaboration with the Jordan National NGOs Forum (JONAF), organized the third edition of the “Season’s Market” the Spring Bazaar on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at the Sweifieh Village Complex in Amman. The Spring Bazaar showcased a wide array of handmade products—ranging from artwork and accessories to clothing, organic soaps, and homemade food—highlighting the creativity and talent of both Jordanian and refugee entrepreneurs. The event also featured entertainment activities for children of all ages, creating a family-friendly and inclusive atmosphere. Beyond its role as a vibrant marketplace, the bazaar served as a vital platform for vendors to connect with local associations, marketing platforms, and potential clients. These interactions help pave the way for greater access to the labor market and contribute to the sustainability and growth of their businesses. In the lead-up to the event, ARDD’s Legal Aid Department conducted a remote capacity-building session on Tuesday, May 20. This specialized training focused on the legal protection of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Topics included project registration, financing mechanisms, building partnerships with the private sector, and strategies for legally safeguarding products and services—providing participants with the tools to scale their initiatives sustainably. The bazaar drew wide participation from the general public, representatives of international organizations, embassies, and community members. Participants expressed appreciation for the opportunity to promote their work, expand their market reach, and connect with a broader audience. One vendor remarked: “This was a great opportunity to connect, explore different products, and foster competitiveness and creativity. The event was successful by all measures—in organization, presentation, and the welcoming atmosphere that allowed us to truly engage with customers.” ARDD and JONAF reaffirm their commitment to supporting local livelihoods by exploring innovative solutions that empower entrepreneurs from both host and refugee communities. By promoting startups, enhancing youth capacities, and creating inclusive and sustainaböe economic opportunities, such initiatives contribute meaningfully to the development and resilience of local markets.
ARDD and Amna – Refugee Healing Network Enhance Community Engagement
As part of its ongoing efforts to provide social support and strengthen community engagement, the Arab Renaissance for Democracy and Development (ARDD) continues to implement awareness activities through the Prevention and Protection Interventions project launched in February 2025. The project hosts 3 to 4 sessions per month and will run through the end of the year at ARDD’s office in Amman, Jordan. Funded by Amna – Refugee Healing Network, the project is part of a broader program being implemented simultaneously in Lebanon under the title “Community Engagement in Jordan and Lebanon,” involving ten local organizations across both countries. The initiative aims to support community members of all nationalities, including men and women, with an emphasis on assisting families as they navigate psychological, social, and economic challenges that impact their well-being. The sessions provide a safe space for parents to discuss and learn about family-related issues, especially those concerning children. They offer a range of tools and skills to cope with daily challenges, particularly those linked to economic pressures and child protection, with a special focus on combating drug abuse. Additionally, the sessions aim to raise awareness about national protection systems and services and how to access them through Jordan’s national referral system. In this context, psychological trainer Manal Al-Sarhan noted: “These sessions create a real and safe space for parents to express themselves and participate. In every meeting, we witness a positive impact on families, whether through improved awareness of child protection or learning coping strategies for everyday psychological pressures.” She added: “The importance of these activities lies in their direct reach to individuals who are often neglected or forgotten amid the many challenges facing humanitarian work.” Participants emphasized the need to continue such activities, particularly now, as many similar projects have been suspended. They pointed to the significant impact these sessions have had on their family and psychological well-being. Many called for younger age groups to be included in the activities, recognizing the preventive value of early intervention. These requests and testimonials were echoed in multiple sessions, where parents shared moving stories about the positive changes in their relationships with their children and their increased understanding of the risks surrounding them. Participants also appreciated ARDD’s provision of a dedicated space for children during the sessions, allowing them to draw and play in a child-friendly environment that supports family participation without barriers. Despite funding challenges, ARDD affirms the importance of maintaining direct relationships with local communities and continuing to deliver services and activities through its diverse programs. This includes providing a safe space for meaningful community engagement for families, as well as in-kind and cash assistance, among other activities that empower communities and enhance their resilience and stability. In this spirit, ARDD calls on donors to listen to the needs of targeted groups and include them in the design of activities and services—an approach demonstrated by Amna – Refugee Healing Network through its partnership with ARDD in implementing this project. The initiative addresses one of the most fundamental needs: preserving human dignity, helping individuals overcome trauma, restoring psychological and social balance, and enabling families to protect their members and strive for a better future.
RSC hosts the Book Launch of Identity Building in Jordan and Kuwait: The Strategy of Inclusion and Exclusion
On May 18th, the Renaissance Strategic Center (RSC) hosted the launch of Identity Building in Jordan and Kuwait: The Strategy of Inclusion and Exclusion (Palgrave Macmillan, 2024) by Dr. Odetta Pizzingrilli, Post-Doctoral Researcher at the University of Pisa and Consultant with RSC. The event brought together academic researchers and representatives from UN agencies, civil society, and international organizations. Dr. Pizzingrilli’s book investigates how national identity in Jordan and Kuwait is shaped through mechanisms of inclusion and exclusion. Based on over 100 interviews and several years of fieldwork, the study analyzes the spatial and narrative dimensions that inform citizenship and belonging. The research focuses on four groups: Arab expatriates and Bedoon (Stateless) in Kuwait, and Circassians and Gazans in Jordan—communities that are integrated within state structures yet occupy distinct legal and social positions. The discussion was moderated by Dr. Mariam Abu Samra, political scientist and RSC Coordinator, who framed the book within broader debates on governance, minority rights, and state formation in the Arab region. She described the work as relevant to various fields concerned with participation and exclusion. The book, organized around two primary dimensions: space and identity, and how these evolve, mapping the changing contours of national belonging from the late Ottoman era to the present, through historical junctures such as the British Mandate, the development of rentier state systems, and the 1990–91 Gulf War. Spatial developments—such as the building of Kuwait’s 1920 wall or the removal of historical landmarks in Amman—are examined for their role in reinforcing dominant national narratives. The conversation addressed how the built environment—including urban infrastructure, territorial boundaries, and natural features—contributes to identity formation. Examples discussed included Gazans in Jordan who recall Gaza through generational memory, reflecting the role of narrative and space in shaping emotional and political attachments. The event concluded with a discussion of positionality, examining how the book contributes to ongoing regional analysis of identity politics and emphasizes the interplay of history, geography, and discourse in the construction and negotiation of belonging.
JONAF Launches its Governance Framework: A Strategic Step Toward Strengthening Civil Society Institutions
In a pivotal move to reinforce transparency and accountability within the Jordan National NGOs Forum (JONAF), the Arab Renaissance for Democracy and Development (ARDD) has officially announced the launch of the forum’s final governance framework. This milestone is part of the “Future Forward: Unlocking Sustainable Local Opportunities” project, funded by the European Regional Development and Protection Programme (RDPP) to support Jordan and Lebanon. The governance framework was introduced through two consultative meetings held on April 22 and 23, 2025. The first meeting took place virtually with members of the General Assembly, while the second was held in person at ARDD’s headquarters with the forum’s administrative board. These sessions aimed to present and explain the framework’s core components while offering a space for feedback and questions, paving the way for a comprehensive and actionable implementation phase. Key topics discussed included the framework’s decision-making mechanisms, internal and external operational structures, roles and responsibilities of committees, and fundamental governance principles—such as transparency, participation, inclusiveness, and the integration of institutional and humanitarian analysis. A monitoring and evaluation (M&E) plan was also introduced, alongside the development of tailored performance measurement tools. The development process of the governance framework spanned from 2023 to 2025 and involved several integrated phases. It began with a thorough assessment of JONAF, a review of relevant networks and platforms, and individual and group consultations with forum members and coordinators to understand the organizational context and key challenges. The process relied on internal evaluations and wide member engagement, culminating in a consultative workshop in November 2024 to finalize the draft framework before its official launch. This initiative not only seeks to clarify roles and responsibilities and build consensus among members, but also to set a roadmap for future steps. These include strengthening inter-organizational collaboration and expanding community representation within the forum. Zainab Al-Khalil, Executive Coordinator of JONAF, emphasized that the launch of the governance framework marks a turning point for the forum: “It is a milestone that reinforces our collective commitment to transparency, accountability, and shared vision, ultimately increasing the forum’s institutional impact.” The “Future Forward” project, implemented by ARDD, aims to empower local communities, foster partnerships among stakeholders, and support livelihoods and economic resilience, particularly among vulnerable groups. A central component of the project is enhancing the JONAF platform by developing a governance structure that truly reflects the aspirations and needs of its members. Established in 2016 as an initiative led by ARDD in collaboration with local and community-based organizations, JONAF promotes coordination, resource sharing, and policy influence grounded in community needs. The forum currently includes an administrative board of 10 members and a General Assembly comprising 41 members and supporting organizations from across Jordan—north, central, and south. These organizations represent a wide array of civil society actors, including groups specialized in working with persons with disabilities, reaffirming the forum’s commitment to inclusiveness and responsiveness to marginalized populations.
“She Leads” Program´s Participants Develop Community Initiatives in Jordan and Egypt
As part of its ongoing efforts to empower young women and enhance their civic and political participation, the Arab Renaissance for Democracy and Development (ARDD) continues to implement the “She Leads” program. The initiative aims to amplify the lasting impact of girls and young women in decision-making processes, while challenging stereotypical perceptions of women in both formal systems and informal institutions. It does so by fostering meaningful youth engagement, strengthening the role of girls and young women in shaping decisions, and training local girls’ councils to ensure the continuity of community and development efforts beyond the life of the project. Following a series of intensive trainings and interactive workshops, She Leads participants launched a range of high-impact initiatives in Jordan and Egypt, designed in response to pressing community priorities and informed by strategic planning. In Jordan, two initiatives were developed in the capital, Amman: one focused on increasing women’s access to leadership and decision-making roles, and the other on addressing electoral violence against women—both contributing to the advancement of women’s political rights and tackling ongoing barriers to their political participation. In Egypt, initiatives were implemented in the governorates of Giza and Assiut. In Giza, participants addressed economic empowerment for women and girls, the creation of safe and inclusive work environments, and improvements in transportation systems to support women’s access to economic opportunities. In Assiut, efforts were focused on reducing child marriage, promoting health awareness among women and girls, and expanding educational opportunities for girls within local communities. What sets these initiatives apart is that they were developed directly by the young women themselves, based on the specific needs of their communities and in collaboration with local councils. This grassroots, participatory approach provides young women with greater agency and space to contribute meaningfully to public life and decision-making processes. The program also includes the development of strong networking and collaboration channels between participants and civil society organizations. These pathways help enhance participants’ practical skills and prepare them to assume impactful leadership roles in the future. This participatory model is a cornerstone of ARDD’s work, which is rooted in the belief that young female leadership is essential for creating lasting and inclusive change. “She Leads” is implemented by ARDD in partnership with Terre des Hommes. It aims to promote gender-equitable participation in decision-making by expanding access to education, skills development, and economic opportunities for women and girls, and by encouraging their engagement in political processes. The program also strengthens advocacy skills, fosters meaningful interaction, and raises awareness through a collaborative and inclusive approach at both the regional and international levels.
Youth Participation Policy Lab: Youths Share Their Visions for Change and a Better Future
Amid the complex political, economic, and social challenges facing Jordan and the wider region, the idea that “Youth are the engine of change” stands out as one of the most vital responses to current crises and a cornerstone for building a better future. Moving forward requires a radical shift in approaches, mindsets, and methodologies — a transformation that hinges on empowering a new generation of leaders and thinkers across all sectors. This aspiration was echoed by participants in the first session Youth Participation Policy Lab in 2025, organized by the Arab Renaissance for Democracy and Development (ARDD) on Monday, May 12, as part of the “New Generation -GenG” project. Titled “Imagining Change: The Aspirations and Visions of Jordanian Youth towards a Better Future,” the session featured anthropologist and researcher Dr. Kamal Mirza, who holds a PhD in sociology and master’s degrees in social anthropology and modern media. Implemented by ARDD in collaboration with the Center for Strategic Studies at the University of Jordan, the lab aims to foster civic and political participation among political science and law students at the university. It also offers practical exposure to key institutions and experts, while equipping students to amplify their voices in policymaking and engage constructively with decision-makers. Speaking on youth and their role in social change, Dr. Mirza said: “Youth are not just the hope of the future; they are the energy of the present. We must provide them with tools and real opportunities for change, not burden them with empty promises.” He stressed that change is never accidental—it requires renewed critical awareness and deep engagement. He continued: “The most important thing we can offer youth is training in analytical thinking and deep understanding of their reality, not simply encouraging them to demand change.” Dr. Mirza emphasized the need to rethink youth involvement in public and political life: “We need platforms managed by youth and for youth—not symbolic inclusion without tangible impact.” Encouraging deeper engagement, he advised young people to build a foundational understanding of social change by reading and reflecting on the realities around them: “Reading deeply opens new doors to understanding. If we want real societal change, we must start with our culture.” Dr. Mirza argued that shaping a better future starts with listening to youth: “They are not just bearers of hope—they are active partners in creating change. We must rethink how institutions engage with young people and support them in building their confidence as changemakers.” The session saw enthusiastic participation from youth, who shared their perspectives on challenges they face—from access to education and meaningful political engagement to social justice. They underscored the need for more inclusive policies that empower youth and strengthen their role in decision-making. As one participant put it: “We need spaces where we can freely express our ideas. Meetings like this make us feel heard—and remind us that change is possible when both will and opportunity exist.” In conclusion, the youth presented a wide range of insights and recommendations. A common theme emerged: real change requires collective effort and shared responsibility. It cannot be imposed from the top down—it must be co-created through participatory policies, support for innovation, and a commitment to transparency and accountability. Only then can young people move from being recipients of challenges to active contributors to sustainable and stable solutions for the future.
She Leads”: A Lecture Shedding Light on Women’s Political Participation and Electoral Violence Against Them
As part of the She Leads program, and in collaboration with the Jordanian National Commission for Women and the Center for Women’s Studies at the University of Jordan, a lecture titled “Women’s Participation in Political Life and Electoral Violence Against Women” was held on Tuesday, May 13, 2025. The lecture was delivered by Dr. Jumana Al-Dahamsha, Head of the Women’s Empowerment Unit at the Ministry of Political and Parliamentary Affairs. Designed as part of the advocacy plan developed by participants in the She Leads program with the support and supervision of ARDD, the lecture showcased the current political realities faced by Jordanian women, the various forms of electoral violence they encounter, and strategies for overcoming these challenges. Dr. Al-Dahamsha explained that electoral violence against women encompasses any form of violence, pressure, or discrimination women face due to their participation in the electoral process, whether as voters, candidates, or campaign workers. She noted that this violence takes many forms, including physical, psychological, and symbolic abuse, such as smear campaigns, bullying, mockery, and threats via social media or in community settings. She emphasized that women’s participation in political life is not a luxury but a cornerstone of justice and democracy. Civil society organizations, governments, and individuals must work to dismantle barriers and ensure that women can access decision-making positions safely and equitably. Amal Al-Awawdeh, Director of the Center for Women’s Studies, highlighted the importance of inclusive activities that bring together young women and men. She emphasized that these initiatives raise awareness of women’s rights and political participation and help build their capacity to address the challenges of leadership and public engagement. Lena Halaseh, Project Manager at ARDD, underscored the importance of building an effective network of youth leaders, experts, and women’s rights activists to facilitate knowledge exchange, promote genuine change in women’s participation in decision-making, and support the sustainability of community-based initiatives. She stressed the need for integrated, locally driven efforts that bring together individual, community, institutional, and political stakeholders to drive meaningful progress. The lecture also prompted insightful interventions from university faculty, students, and representatives of women’s organizations. Many expressed concern over the growing manifestations of symbolic and political violence in both physical and digital spaces and called for stronger preventive and legislative measures. In closing, participants called for greater youth and student involvement in national dialogues on women’s empowerment and the development of support and advocacy networks to challenge stereotypes and reduce violence against women. This includes awareness-raising, training, and legal assistance programs. The She Leads program aims to promote gender-equitable representation and increase women’s participation in decision-making processes through targeted capacity-building activities. These focus on expanding access to education and skills development, fostering political engagement, and strengthening advocacy and meaningful interaction. The program adopts a collaborative and inclusive approach at the regional and international levels.
Book Launch of Stolen Nation: The Right to Reparation of Palestinian Refugees at RSC, Marking the 77th Anniversary of the Nakba
As part of the activities marking the 77th anniversary of the Nakba, independent legal expert and associate member of the Centre for Palestine Studies at SOAS, Dr. Lena El-Malak, presented her timely new book Stolen Nation: The Right to Reparation of Palestinian Refugees. In it, she offers a legal analysis of the right to reparation under international law for the destruction and expropriation of Palestinian property during the Nakba. The event was attended by students, as well as several representatives of civil society and international organizations. Dr. Mariam Abu Samra – political scientist and coordinator of the Renaissance Strategic Center – moderated the launch, introducing it as “our first event under the framework of the Nakba activities that we organize every year.” Acknowledging the brutality of the ongoing genocide, she stated that the “book is coming at a very, very important moment.” We are living in “this historical phase, where, on top of everything we are seeing, we are also witnessing the complete dismantlement of any kind of international framework and institution that was supposed to provide some kind of justice or protection for Palestinians and in this case, Palestinian refugees.” As the daughter of Palestinian refugees and a Nakba survivor, Dr. Lena El-Malak wanted to revive the Palestinian refugee issue, noting that researchers, media and politicians rarely touch on this issue. She sees international law as a tool for advocacy and aims to show how reparations can deter states from engaging in forcible displacement. In researching this topic, she came to the understanding that the Nakba is not a closed historical event, but an ongoing process rooted in a complex system of domination. Her book’s analysis of property laws dating back to the Ottoman Empire – including the Ottoman Land Code and the British Mandate – illustrates how Israel used the law to give a legal clout to the permanent expropriation of Palestinian refugee property. Laws such as the Absentee Property Law were used to dispossess Palestinian refugees but also Palestinian citizens of Israel by creating the fictitious legal status of “present absentees” – Palestinians considered legally absent whilst being physically present within the State of Israel. In asserting that the laws used resulted in the unlawful expropriation of Palestinian property, Dr. El-Malak calls for a rights-based approach in which Palestinian refugees can claim their rights of restitution and compensation, or both – since the rights are not mutually exclusive. As Dr. Abu Samra noted, law – like any other framework – can serve as a tool of power and colonialism. Dr. El-Malak takes a decolonial perspective, arguing that law can and should be strategically used to fight for Palestine because “it’s a legal way to be strategic, powerful and efficient.” Yet, she emphasizes the need for new strategies. Recognizing that models like the Holocaust restitution movement are unlikely to succeed in this context, she proposes legal action against entities such as the JNF or Elbit Systems as more effective avenues. Despite the obstacles, she insists these efforts are worth pursuing, as sustained pressure on governments and corporations can yield results. She concluded by stressing the need to view today’s events as part of a continuum that began over a 100 years ago with the colonization of Palestine. She said that “this is the ongoing Nakba and it is impossible to conceive of any permanent resolution of this struggle for liberation that wouldn’t address the root cause of it – the theft of a Nation”.