Jordan First is an attempt to define a new social accord between Jordanians, as it emphasizes the pre-eminence of Jordan’s interests above all other considerations, and reformulates the state-individual relationship. Moreover, it goes beyond being a mere concept, as it will be translated into an investment in the Jordanian people, in their education, training, health and well-being to prepare them for a future that promises prosperity, knowledge and accomplishment. Jordan First is a constructive appeal and an approach that seeks to open new doors for policies and programs in development, education, culture, communication and information. Moreover, Jordan First represents an invitation to civil society institutions and the private sector to raise their contribution in building a modern state through focusing on achieving economic, social, and political development, creating productive opportunities, fighting poverty and unemployment, and improving the standards of living of all citizens. In summary, Jordan First is a philosophy of governance. It is based on the premise of placing Jordan's national interest at the forefront of all considerations of civil society.
To advance the liberalization process, the Jordan First campaign calls upon the government to deepen the sense of national identity among citizens and spread a culture of respect and tolerance to integrate and fortify a diverse, but united, national and social fabric that thrives in an atmosphere of justice, democracy, due process, and equal opportunity. To entrench a true sense of democracy, the government is also stipulated to enhance public freedom, as granted by the constitution, and systematically abide by the principles of accountability and transparency. In parallel, the government is required to vest tireless efforts in eradicating poverty and unemployment through devising national programs that aim at improving efficiency and productivity, particularly in the rural and less developed areas of the country.
The Jordan First campaign also aims to develop a new perception of the status of women in the Jordanian society. While effort has been vested in the past to elevate the social and economic status of women, several notable reforms have been carried out in recent years to elevate the social and economic status of women. These encompass introducing a women’s quota in the upcoming elections as a temporary and transitional measure, in addition to introducing amendments to the Passport, Social Security and Citizenship laws. Furthermore, under a new temporary law announced at the closing the of the second Arab Women’s Summit in November 2002, Jordanian women are now entitled to pass citizenship on to their children.
Jordan First also aspires to build an information model that places national interests at the forefront of its priorities. Jordan has always realized the significance and relevance of the press, and this is especially true in light of the recent efforts carried out to modernize the economy and civil society. The media in general, and the press in specific, remains to form an integral part of the government’s communications strategy with its people. Updating the public and allowing them to express their views and concerns of the various reforms and initiatives is an integral part of the reform process. As such, and in support of this policy, an independent Higher Media Council was established, as a body comprised of both public and private sector organizations specialized in media. The Council’s responsibilities encompass formulating media policy, overseeing the regulation of the media sector and assisting in the creation of a responsible and accountable media environment. This body, supported by amended media-related laws and regulations, has created a favorable climate for the press and other media outlets to create a vibrant and transparent media environment.
Jordan First also realizes that the Parliament is the vital pillar of any democratic state. It also emphasizes that true democracy cannot be attained without the active participation of viable political parties. These parties are institutions that must be fostered and respected for their intellectual and political ideologies.