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The new concept of national security

Nov 12,2017 - Last updated at Nov 12,2017

In a dynamic atmosphere like that of the Middle East, the concept of national security needs to be revised in order to successfully meet the challenges and provide effective and efficient tools to develop a more resilient society.

The new concept of national security cannot be limited to military and security issues as it has in recent years. It must successfully protect both citizens and the state against all threats and dangers.

In order to achieve this, a wider range of issues needs to be involved, such as diplomacy, micro-economic development, economic power, inter- and intra-state relations, as well as internal and external communication.

National security needs to comprehensively and progressively consider strategies, policies and solutions, and implement them in order to navigate any bumpy road. It must become a strategy that develops innovative solutions to problems of the state, and an essential component in the endeavour to boost development and enhance progressive thought in the country.

This kind of thinking is particularly needed in a country like Jordan.  There are various areas that need this kind of new thinking in order to get better results. Socio-economic and local development, food security plans, unemployment, education reform, agriculture, transportation and energy plans, security and progressive anti-terrorism strategies are just some of the serious challenges that need a new approach.

The Jordanian economy needs massive reform from the bottom up, and that needs to start now, before it is too late.

A dependent economy that relies on external services and support is no longer sustainable. It must become independent and productive, and that can only happen with a clear roadmap that is followed.

Obviously the new concept of national security must continue the de-radicalisation process, enhancing the capacity of the security apparatus and addressing criminal and terrorist threats. It must partner with neighbours and the citizenry by building alliances and communicating more clearly in order to bring the power of the region to bear on these threats.

Integrating this new concept of national strategy should be part of the strategic vision of the state.

Its role is to accurately diagnose the underlying issues and deliver effective and efficient solutions.

It does not need a new institution, it can be simply a small and nimble unit that coordinates the work among state institutions and teaches others how to think differently.

The idea is to add a functional cell to organise and harmonise the entire work mechanism.

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