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Jordan

In Jordan, HI supports rehabilitation services for people with disabilities. It detects risks or signs of disability among young children and provides rehabilitation services to mitigate complications. HI also works towards inclusive employment and access to education for all, including children with disabilities.

A Handicap International physiotherapist examines Qasem, a 10-year-old Syrian girl with dwarfism, Jordan.

Actions in process

Since 2012, HI has been working alongside Syrian refugees and vulnerable individuals in Jordan, particularly those with disabilities. The organization supports physiotherapy services and provides orthopedic equipment to individuals with disabilities or injuries in partner hospitals and health centers. HI also trains Jordanian health professionals to enhance the quality of services. Additionally, there is a focus on early detection and intervention of disabilities in children to mitigate the risks of complications.

Simultaneously, the organization, along with local partners, strives to improve access to education for everyone - targeting early years (kindergarten level) - and create job opportunities for youth with disabilities. The association aims to enhance the inclusion of children and adults with disabilities in their communities to limit or prevent their placement in institutions.

 

Situation of the country

Jordan is one of the most stable countries in the region. Although it has an average human development index, there are still significant inequalities among the population and an important increase of the unemployment rate.

Near 700,000 Syrian refugees are living in Jordan. In 2018, a survey conducted in Jordan by HI and IMMAP showed that 22.9% of Syrian refugees, more than 140,000 individuals, have disabilities. Persons with disabilities represent one of the most vulnerable groups of the population in the country, particularly those living in rural and remote areas. Disability prevalence was estimated in 2018 to be between 11 and 15% and some study found that 30% of Syrian refugees in Jordan had specific physical and intellectual needs. Furthermore, most children with disabilities (between 85% and 95%) are excluded from the general education system.

Number of HI staff members: 46

Program launch date: 2006

 
Map of HI intervention in Jordan

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© Dan Giannopoulos / Handicap International