Still no clear definition of ‘extremism’, experts warn

AMMAN — A clear definition of extremism is needed in Jordan and is absent in the government’s strategy to combat radicalism, according to civil society representatives.

At the “Partners in Development and Strategy” forum,  held by the Coordinating Committee for Civil Society, Himam, commentators noted that the definition of extremism is still vague, which hampers efforts to combat it.

“The government came up with a strategy, which it formulated  without coordinating with stakeholders, including civil society. This is why the plan is incomplete and cannot be relied on for such a serious undertaking,” Oraib Rintawi, director of Al Quds Centre for Political Studies, said.

Sharif Omari, director of the Counterextremism Unit at the Ministry of Culture, echoed these sentiments, adding that the strategy was formulated with a “security mentality” alone, while neglecting other factors that lead to radicalism.

“The good news is that another national and comprehensive strategy will see the light of day soon and, this time, it will engage with civil society,” he said.

Stressing that extremism cannot be fought with extremism, Mai Oleimat, head of the Hayat Centre for Civil Society Development, underlined the important role that civil society can play as a mediator between the community and decision makers.

Also speaking at the panel was Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Mamdouh Abbadi, who presented a briefing on the emergence of extremism.