Title: German Minister Vows Aid for Jordan in Refugee Care Amid Middle East Conflict
The visit of Germany's Development Minister, Svenja Schulze, to Jordan is occurring amidst the ongoing tension between Hamas in the Gaza Strip and Israel. Jordan, known for its historical role as a mediator in Middle East conflicts, is highly appreciated by Schulze for its humanitarian and political dedication. She emphasized that the country's commitment is crucial for maintaining peace in the region.
Schulze's ministry revealed that the Zaatari refugee camp, which she visited, is among the largest in the Middle East. Refugees fleeing the Syrian conflict inhabit the camp. Germany, in collaboration, has constructed the world's largest solar plant within the Zaatari refugee camp with German support.
Jordan's refugee care, appreciated by Schulze, is not only humanitarian but also significant for regional peace. Germany is further pledging assistance in areas such as education, vocational training, and basic services, including waste disposal and water supply. A substantial sum will be allocated towards aiding Jordan's refugee management.
Germany's commitment to supporting Jordan's refugee care goes beyond mere financial aid. Initiatives in education, vocational training, and municipal services are geared towards enhancing the lives of refugees and host communities.
Education and Vocational Training
The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, through its 'Promoting Quality in Inclusive Education in Jordan (PROMISE)' program, is aiding the Jordanian government in incorporating disability inclusion into its national Education Sector Plan. This program has led to increased awareness among educators and has improved learning environments for students with special needs.
Engagement Global - Service for Development Initiatives, through its 'BMZ Schools Programme,' is working to integrate Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) into school systems in Germany and its partner countries, including Jordan.
Essential Municipal Services
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Germany are working together to manage waste disposal in refugee camps, preventing potential disease outbreaks. Improved healthcare facilities, modeled after initiatives like mobile clinics and water treatment equipment operation in Gaza, could further enhance the healthcare services in refugee camps like Zaatari.
Germany, through organizations such as UNICEF and the World Food Programme, is also providing food and medical aid to refugees, aiming to combat malnutrition in children.
General Support
Germany has elevated its humanitarian assistance for the Palestinian territories, allocating over 300 million euros since October 2023. The aid includes food, emergency shelter, and medical supplies. Germany's Special Envoy for Middle East Humanitarian Issues, Deike Potzel, serves as a central point of contact for stakeholders, ensuring humanitarian aid reaches those in need.
Schulze's visit and Germany's pledge of additional aid underscore their commitment to helping Jordan manage its refugee crisis. By providing targeted support in education, vocational training, and essential municipal services, Germany seeks to contribute to sustainable solutions for this complex humanitarian challenge.
