Title: Population spatial distribution policies in Jordan.

POPLINE Document Number: 101737

Author(s):

Samha M

Source citation:

In: Population spatial distribution, [compiled by] United Nations. Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia [ESCWA]. Social Development, Population and Human Settlements Division. [Amman, Jordan], ESCWA, 1993 Aug 8. :83-105. (E/ESCWA/POP/1993/4)

Abstract:

An understanding of the population issues of Jordan must entail consideration of the border changes, particularly after 1948. Population in a short time tripled to over 1,100,000. Fertility declined slightly from 44/1000 in 1979 to 38/1000 in 1983. East Bank censuses have revealed population increase from 587,000 in 1952 to almost 2.7 million in 1985. Population growth in the East Bank was 4.8% annually until 1979 and 4.2% until 1985. Amman grew from 214,000l in 1952 to 1.5 million in 1985, which was 56% of total population. Most population concentration is in the northwest and has been affected by natural change, voluntary internal migration, and refugee movements. Urban population increased from less than 39% in 1952 to almost 61% in 1985. The rate of urbanization slowed after 1961 and stabilized by 1985. Rates varied over time and space, and governorate urban growth has converged in the recent past. Socioeconomic factors have affected the demographic patterns: 88.1% of enterprises and 95.7% of employment are located in the Amman-Zarqa area. Development has been constrained due to the uneven pattern of population distribution and rapid population growth. 15-20% of arable land was used for urban expansion; considering that arable land is only 6% of total land area, this meant a considerable loss for agriculture and water resources. Jordan does not have a population policy; population issues are considered within development planning. The 1981-85 Development Plan addressed the disparity in resources between regions, and the following plan emphasized integrated regional development and agriculture. The 1986-90 Plan included an immigration and emigration policy with the intention of controlling labor migration. Quality of life improved under these plans: the number of schools increased, school facilities were upgraded, and the number of health centers and hospitals expanded. The improvements in social development, infrastructure, and manpower are assumed to be sufficient to influence fertility decline.

Keywords:

Jordan
Summary Report
Population Distribution
Social Policy
Refugees
Socioeconomic Factors
Migration
Middle East
Developing Countries
Geographic Factors
Population
Policy
Migrants
Population Dynamics
Demographic Factors
Economic Factors