National Security Overview

National Security

• National security is a country's government's ability to protect its citizens, economy, and institutions from internal and external threats.
• Globalization and interconnectedness mean state security is no longer just about military power; it requires a mixture of military and non-military tactics.
• National security is important to preserve national sovereignty and a nation's ability to exert power domestically and internationally.
• Concepts of sovereignty and power can measure a state's security.
• Factors negatively influencing a state's sovereignty and power also pose threats to national security.

Key Terms and Concepts

• Sovereignty:
  • External sovereignty: a state's authority to govern itself without external influence.
  • Internal sovereignty: the ability of a government to govern and have authority over its citizens.
• International law defines a sovereign state as having four key elements:
  • Permanent population
  • Defined territory
  • One government
  • The capacity to enter relations with other sovereign states

Power

• Power is the ability to influence and enforce order within a state's borders and on the world stage.
• States exert power through two methods:
  • Hard power: uses coercion (military and economy)
  • Soft power: uses cooperation (culture, education, diplomacy)

Jordan's National Security

• Jordan's national security aims to protect its population, territory, and sovereignty from threats (internal and external).
• Measures include safety, stability, peace, physical protection, risk management, law enforcement, diplomacy, and international cooperation
• Jordan's security is linked to Arab national security.
• National security is dependent on professionalism in the armed forces and the economic and social security of all citizens.
• Strengthening democracy is crucial.
• Stability and prosperity in political, economic, social, technical, media, and environmental fields are vital pillars of Jordan's national security.

Challenges to Jordan's National Security

• Terrorism and Extremism: Jordan's security is threatened by terrorist groups and extreme ideologies.
• Border Security: Safeguarding borders from illegal activities like smuggling and infiltration of armed groups.
• Cybersecurity: Jordan's digital reliance makes it vulnerable to cyber threats such as hacking and cyber espionage.
• Regional Instability: Neighboring conflicts like Syria and Iraq cause refugee issues and violence spillover.
• Economic Challenges: High unemployment, poverty, and resource scarcity pose threats to internal stability.
• Refugee Crisis: Millions of refugees, primarily from Syria, create strain on resources like housing and jobs.
• Water scarcity: Jordan's limited water resources are threatened by climate change, and competition over water could worsen.
• Smuggling and Illegal Trade: Challenges in controlling smuggling of weapons, drugs, and people.
• Cross-border Infiltration: Preventing the movement of militants and arms across its porous borders.
• Geopolitical Dynamics: Tensions and power struggles between regional actors like Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Israel influence Jordan's security.

Foundations (Pillars) of Jordanian National Security

• Military Defense: A strong military is crucial.
• Intelligence and Counterterrorism: Effective intelligence gathering is vital in preventing and countering threats.
• Diplomacy and Regional Cooperation: Working with allies for common security and promoting stability
• Border Control and Law Enforcement: Strong border security is essential.
• Socioeconomic Development: Investing in socio-economic development can mitigate instability.

The Role of the Military Institution in Jordan

• The Jordanian Armed Forces-Arab Army (JAF) plays a pivotal role in the country's stability, security, and development.
• National Defense and Security: Protecting borders.
• Counterterrorism: Combating terrorism.
• Maintaining Internal Stability: Supporting stability during crisis and unrest.
• Regional and International Cooperation: Participating in peacekeeping missions, alliances, and humanitarian aid efforts.
• Economic and Developmental Contributions: The military plays a role in construction, infrastructure development, employment, and economic support.
• Symbol of National Unity: The military reinforces patriotism and cohesion.
• Royal Engagement: Close ties between military and the Royal family reinforces national unity.
• Response to Humanitarian Crises: Disaster relief and refugee assistance.

This quiz explores the critical concepts of national security, including its significance in protecting citizens and preserving sovereignty. It delves into how globalization and interconnectedness influence state security, emphasizing the blend of military and non-military approaches. Additionally, the quiz examines key terms such as sovereignty and the factors affecting a state's security.