Historical Encyclopedia
The state system of Jordan has gone through a complex development path, starting from the British mandate period when it was known as Transjordan, to the establishment of the modern independent kingdom. The history of Jordan's political structure reflects the process of adaptation to external challenges, internal changes, and the desire to strengthen national identity. The evolution of the Jordanian state system is closely connected with the names of influential political figures and rulers who defined its course at various historical moments.
In the early 20th century, the territory of Jordan was part of the Ottoman Empire, but after its collapse in 1918, the region came under British control. In 1921, after the end of World War I, the British established the Emirate of Transjordan, which became part of the British mandate over Palestine. This period was an important stage in the political formation of the region, as the British Empire sought to strengthen its position in a strategically important area by governing through local emirs and placing its representatives in key power structures.
The first emir of Transjordan was Abdullah I, the son of Sheriff Hussein bin Ali, who led the region in 1921. He initiated the process of creating a local administrative structure focused on the Arab population, aimed at stabilization and creating a foundation for future independence. At the same time, the British maintained control over foreign policy and key aspects of governance.
The British mandate was significant for shaping the Jordanian political system, as it laid the foundations for legislative and executive power. In 1928, the first national representation law was adopted, which created the first parliamentary structures in Transjordan.
After World War II, the political situation in the region began to change. Many Arab countries were striving for independence from colonial powers, and Jordan was no exception. The situation was complicated by the Arab-Israeli conflict, which affected neighboring Palestine and Israel. In 1946, Jordan gained full independence, and its status was changed from a semi-autonomous emirate to an independent kingdom.
King Abdullah I continued to develop the state's administrative structure, adopting several constitutional reforms aimed at establishing a parliament and government apparatus. A significant event at this stage was the adoption of the first Constitution of Jordan in 1952, which established the legal foundations for the functioning of the state. The Constitution provided for the creation of a monarchy with limited powers and enshrined the principle of hereditary succession to the throne, which continues to operate today.
During Abdullah I's reign, Jordan began to actively participate in international politics, forging alliances with neighboring Arab countries, significantly influencing its internal and foreign policy.
After the tragic death of King Abdullah I in 1951, his son Hussein became the new ruler of Jordan. Since ascending to the throne in 1952, King Hussein pursued a course of modernization and reform of the state system. His reign marked an important stage in the political and social development of Jordan, signifying a transition to a more modern and institutionalized form of governance.
One of Hussein's first steps was to develop the political system, which included expanding the role of parliament and increasing governmental accountability. King Hussein initiated reforms aimed at improving the structure of the Jordanian army, enhancing education and healthcare, as well as creating a more efficient infrastructure. All these steps were part of a broader modernization process aimed at strengthening political stability and social progress in the country.
King Hussein also played a significant role in Arab politics and actively advocated for improved relations with neighboring countries and the resolution of the Arab-Israeli conflict. In 1967, Jordan lost the West Bank, which had significant repercussions for the state's political and governance system. This period also became a time for deepening internal political reform and strengthening the institution of monarchy.
Since ascending to the throne in 1999, King Abdullah II has continued the reforms initiated by his father. He significantly strengthened political and economic institutions, creating a more open and modern state. One of the key areas of his reign has been economic reforms aimed at integrating Jordan into the global economy.
King Abdullah II has also emphasized political reform, seeking to increase the degree of democracy and citizen participation in governance. Changes were made to the electoral system, justice and transparency institutions were improved, and the role of civil society in the political process was strengthened. During this period, work began to enhance the role of parliament and improve conditions for business and investment.
King Abdullah II demonstrated the ability to adapt the Jordanian governance model to the modern requirements of a globalized world. Under his leadership, Jordan has made strides toward political stability and economic growth, despite all the challenges the region has faced in recent decades.
Modern Jordan is a constitutional monarchy, where the role of the king remains key. Despite the existence of a parliament composed of two chambers—the House of Representatives and the Senate—real power remains concentrated in the hands of the monarch. According to the Constitution, the king has broad powers, including appointing the government, vetoing laws, deciding on foreign policy and security matters, as well as the right to dissolve parliament.
One significant step toward democratization has been the establishment in recent decades of a program of political reforms aimed at improving the electoral system, expanding civil rights, and strengthening the role of parliament. However, the monarchy still plays a central role in the political life of the country, and Jordan continues to be a stable state amid the political and economic challenges in the region.
The evolution of the state system of Jordan is a complex and multilayered process that continues to develop against the backdrop of changes in the Arab world. From the British mandate period to the modern rule of King Abdullah II, Jordan has transitioned from colonial control to an independent and dynamic state. Today, Jordan continues to evolve its state system, striving for the strengthening of democracy, improvement of economic conditions, and preservation of internal stability amid the complex political situation in the region.