Overview

Since 2005 UN-Habitat has supported the Government and people of Jordan to better manage rapid urbanization and confront the environmental impact of urban sprawl. UN-Habitat’s technical support included strengthening capacity of governmental institutions on data collection and analysis, establishing local mechanisms for urban monitoring, supporting data collection for urban indicators and dissemination of urban data, improving access to affordable housing and providing training on City prosperity index (CPI).  

Vista general

Jordan has been experiencing a steady increase in its urban population exacerbated by the successive waves of forced migrants from surrounding countries. Between 2004 to 2014, the population increased by nearly 87 per cent resulting in a wide range of urban challenges such as informal urban expansions and increasing rental prices, water deficiencies, shortage of housing and other basic services, environmental degradation and pollution and lack of decent job opportunities for all.

Urban numbers

9.6 per cent Syrian refugees live in semi-permanent, substandard housing in the established refugee camps of Azraq and Za’atari.

27 per cent of Jordanians and 48 per cent of Syrian refugees lack access to affordable housing.

Less than 100m3 of annual renewable water resources is available per person (below global line for absolute water scarcity of 500m3).

Country Beneficiaries

Donors and partners

The success of our work in Jordan depends largely on successful partnerships, particularly with other UN agencies, NGOs and local authorities. Through the programme, UN-Habitat identifies and mobilises diverse local partners who can contribute to enhancing social cohesion between refugees and local community. By adopting participatory approach, UN-Habitat engages communities and vulnerable groups in the design and implementation of public spaces.

Donors

UNHCR
UNDP (incl. one UN fund)
Switzerland
Jordan
Global Water Challenge
Denmark
Adaptation Fund Board

Contact

Deema Abu Thiab
National Programme Coordinator (NPC)
UN-Habitat Jordan office