National Security and Military Institution 2024-2025 PDF

security and military institution What is National Security? National Security: The ability of a country’s government to protect its citizens, economy and other institutions from both internal (domestic) and external (regional/international) threats Due to increased globalization an...

security and military institution What is National Security? National Security: The ability of a country’s government to protect its citizens, economy and other institutions from both internal (domestic) and external (regional/international) threats Due to increased globalization and interconnectedness, state security is no longer just a matter of military power State security must be implemented through a strategic mixture of military and non-military tactics. National security plays an important role in conserving the sovereignty of a nation and its ability to exert power, both domestically and on the world stage Measure of National Security The concepts of sovereignty and power can be used as a measure of state’s security. The factors that negatively influence the extent of state’s sovereignty and power are the same factors that pose the ultimate threats facing a state’s national security Key Terms and Concepts Sovereignty: can be defined in terms of: External Sovereignty –the authority of a state to govern itself without external governance Internal Sovereignty –the ability of a government to govern and have authority over the citizens of a state. - International law defines a sovereign state to have 4 elements: Permanent Population Defined Territory One Government The capacity to enter relations with other sovereign states  we can define Power as : the ability to influence change and enforce order within a state’s territories and on the world stage There are two methods by which a state exerts power: Hard Power –uses methods of coercion (military and economy) Soft Power –uses methods of cooperation (culture, education, diplomacy etc.  Jordan’s National Security Jordan National Security First of all, we need to define Security , which refers to the condition of being protected against threats, risks, or dangers that could potentially cause harm. It includes measures and practices aimed at ensuring safety, stability, and peace for individuals, communities, organizations, or nations. In general Security can be achieved through various means, including physical protection, risk management, law enforcement, diplomacy, and international cooperation. The concept of security is broad and can apply to different domains, such as national security, cybersecurity, financial security, and personal security. In this unit we are going to discuss the National security.  The concept of national security includes safeguarding a country's critical interests, population, territory, and sovereignty from both internal and external threats. It entails a thorough strategy for preserving the peace, stability, and prosperity of a country. Military defense, intelligence collection, law enforcement, border control, cybersecurity, economic stability, and resilience against pandemics and natural catastrophes are just a few of the aspects that make up national security. Ensuring a country's safety and well-being for its people while advancing its strategic interests and values both at home and abroad is the aim of national security. The nature, foundation, and scope of current threats to Jordan's national security Categories of Difficulties: 1. Terrorism and Extremism: Jordan's national security is seriously threatened by the threat posed by terrorist groups and extreme ideologies, both locally and regionally. 2. Border Security: Preserving national security requires safeguarding the borders from illegal operations such as trafficking, smuggling, and the entrance of armed groups. 3. Cybersecurity: Given Jordan's growing reliance on digital technologies, the country is susceptible to online dangers such data breaches, hacking, and cyber espionage. 4. Regional Instability: Jordan has security concerns, such as refugee influxes and spillover violence, due to its proximity to conflict zones and political instability in the region, notably in neighboring countries like Syria and Iraq. 5. Economic challenges : Financial difficulties including high unemployment, poverty and resource scarcity, can undermine social stability and pose indirect threats to national security. Foundations (pillars) of Jordanian National Security: 1. Military Defense: Building a strong and capable military force to defend the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity. 2. Intelligence and Counterterrorism: Enhancing intelligence capabilities and cooperation to prevent and counter terrorist threats. 3. Diplomacy and Regional Cooperation: Engaging in diplomatic efforts and regional partnerships to address common security challenges and promote stability. 4. Border Control and Law Enforcement: Strengthening border security measures and law enforcement agencies to combat cross-border threats and maintain internal stability. 5. Socioeconomic Development: Investing in socioeconomic development and addressing root causes of instability to promote social cohesion and resilience Jordan’s national security shall be based on the following considerations:  Jordan’s security is part of Arab national security. In good times and bad, each has a direct bearing on the other.  Jordanian national security is also dependent on inculcating the concept of professionalism in the armed forces  Economic and social security for all segments of the Jordanian people is an essential component of national security.  Strengthening democracy is an essential component contributing to a deeper commitment to the homeland and greater confidence in its institutions.  In Jordan, stability and prosperity in the political, economic, social, technical, media and environmental fields are considered the true pillars of national security. Any violation of this stability and prosperity is deemed a serious threat and challenge to the country and society. From this perspective, the issues discussed in newspapers, such as poverty, unemployment, economic growth, inflation, population growth and the water problem, whether discussed in combination or individually, represent a threat to internal stability and prosperity. Consequently, they form a substantial challenge to national security.  The role of military institution: The military institution in Jordan plays a pivotal role in the country's stability, security, and development. Known as the Jordanian Armed Forces-Arab Army (JAF), it is a respected and influential entity within the Kingdom. Its roles can be categorized into the following areas: 1. National Defense and Security Border Protection: The JAF safeguards Jordan's borders, which are shared with countries facing instability, such as Syria and Iraq. This role is critical in preventing the infiltration of militants, smuggling, and illegal activities. Counterterrorism: Jordan's military is a key player in combating terrorism, working both domestically and in regional coalitions against groups like ISIS. Maintaining Internal Stability: The armed forces often assist in ensuring internal security during crises, natural disasters, or periods of political unrest. 2. Regional and International Cooperation Peacekeeping Missions: Jordan contributes extensively to United Nations peacekeeping efforts worldwide, reflecting its commitment to global peace and stability. Alliances and Training: The JAF collaborates with allies like the United States and other Arab and Western nations for military training, joint exercises, and intelligence sharing. Humanitarian Assistance: Jordan's military has been involved in providing aid to refugees, especially during the Syrian crisis, by establishing and securing refugee camps. 3. Economic and Developmental Contributions Infrastructure and Development Projects: The military contributes to national development through engineering, construction projects, and logistics support. Employment: The JAF is one of the largest employers in the country, offering career opportunities to Jordanian citizens. Support to the Economy: Military-owned entities and industries, such as the King Abdullah II Design and Development Bureau (KADDB), contribute to technological innovation and economic growth. 4. Symbol of National Unity Promoting Patriotism: The military is a unifying force in Jordanian society, symbolizing national pride and cohesion. Royal Engagement: King Abdullah II, himself a former military officer, maintains a close connection with the armed forces, emphasizing their role in upholding the country's sovereignty and values. 5. Response to Humanitarian Crises Disaster Relief: The JAF plays a crucial role in disaster response, both domestically and internationally, by providing logistics, medical aid, and rescue operations. Refugee Support: Jordan’s military has been instrumental in managing the challenges posed by the influx of refugees from neighboring conflicts. challenges: Jordan faces several challenges to its national security, stemming from both internal and external factors. These challenges are influenced by regional instability, economic pressures, and evolving global security dynamics. Below are the key challenges to Jordan's national security: 1. Regional Instability Proximity to Conflict Zones: Jordan shares borders with Syria, Iraq, Israel, and Palestine, all regions that have experienced prolonged conflict. Spillover effects from these conflicts, including militant activities and refugee influxes, pose significant security threats. Terrorism and Extremism: The rise of extremist groups like ISIS in neighboring countries has created persistent risks of cross-border attacks, recruitment, and radicalization within Jordan.  Terrorism: The unlawful use of violence and intimidation to achieve a specific political goal; Acts typically do not discriminate, meaning that all people (women, children, elderly etc.) are victims to these crimes International Terrorism: Acts done by individuals or groups associated with foreign terrorist organizations or affiliated with nation states (state-sponsored) Domestic Terrorism: Acts done by individuals or groups inspired by domestic influence, such as politics, religion and race Terrorist Group: A political movement, typically holding radical and extremist ideologies, that use terror as a tactic to achieve its goals. 2. Refugee Crisis Strain on Resources: Jordan hosts millions of refugees, particularly from Syria and Iraq. This creates economic and social pressures, including competition for jobs, housing, and public services, which can lead to societal tensions. Security Risks: Refugee camps and urban centers housing displaced populations can become areas of concern for potential radicalization or criminal activities. 3. Economic Challenges Dependence on External Aid: Jordan’s economy relies heavily on foreign aid, which limits its ability to independently address security needs. Unemployment and Poverty: High unemployment rates, especially among youth, can create conditions conducive to social unrest and vulnerability to radicalization. Budget Constraints: Limited financial resources impact the military and security forces' ability to maintain and upgrade capabilities to address emerging threats. 4. Border Security Smuggling and Illegal Trade: Jordan faces challenges in controlling smuggling activities along its borders, including weapons, drugs, and human trafficking. Cross-Border Infiltration: Preventing the movement of militants and arms across its porous borders with Syria and Iraq remains a critical concern. 5. Water Scarcity and Environmental Issues Water Security: Jordan is one of the most water- scarce countries in the world. Competition over limited water resources, compounded by climate change and population growth, could exacerbate internal and regional tensions. Environmental Challenges: Climate change impacts, such as droughts and desertification, threaten agricultural production and livelihoods, 6. Cybersecurity Threats Digital Vulnerabilities: The increasing use of technology has exposed Jordan to risks of cyberattacks, including hacking of critical. The impact of globalization and regional conflict on Jordanian national security is significant and multifaceted: 1. Globalization: Globalization has led to increased interconnectedness and interdependence among nations, which presents both opportunities and challenges for Jordan's national security. On one hand, globalization has facilitated economic growth, trade, and cultural exchange, contributing to Jordan's development. On the other hand, it has exposed Jordan to transnational threats, such as terrorism, cybercrime, and illicit trafficking, which require enhanced security measures and cooperation with international partners. 2. Regional Conflict: The volatile and conflict-prone nature of the Middle East region has direct implications for Jordan's national security. Proximity to conflict zones, such as Syria and Iraq, exposes Jordan to spillover effects, including refugee influxes, cross-border violence, and the spread of extremist ideologies. Regional conflicts also disrupt trade routes, energy supplies, and diplomatic relations, impacting Jordan's stability and security.  3. Refugee Crisis: Jordan hosts a large population of refugees, primarily from Syria and Palestine, which strains resources, infrastructure, and social cohesion. The refugee crisis exacerbates socioeconomic challenges, increases competition for jobs and services, and poses security risks, including potential radicalization and social unrest. 4  5. Geopolitical Dynamics: Geopolitical tensions and power struggles among regional actors, including Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Israel, impact Jordan's security environment. Political rivalries, proxy conflicts, and interventions in neighboring countries influence regional stability and may indirectly affect Jordan's national security interests. In response to these challenges, Jordan pursues a multi-faceted approach to national security, which includes strengthening border security, enhancing counterterrorism capabilities, promoting socioeconomic development, engaging in regional diplomacy, and fostering partnerships with international allies. Despite the complexities and uncertainties posed by globalization and regional conflict, Jordan remains committed to safeguarding its sovereignty, stability, and