70% of Jordanians trust PM Jafar Hassan, 95% support conscription: survey

The Strategic Studies Center at the University of Jordan released the results of its annual public opinion survey today, evaluating public and opinion-leader perceptions about one year after the Prime Minister Jafar Hassan was tasked with his post, alongside views on current national issues.

High Public Confidence in the Government

The survey revealed that 70% of Jordanians, including both the national sample and opinion leaders, expressed confidence in Hassan’s government. Of these, 23% have high confidence and 47% moderate confidence.

Among opinion leaders, 85% reported following the government’s actions, while 49% of the general national sample said they actively monitor government performance.

Perceptions of Government Performance Improve

The poll showed an upward trend in Jordanians’ perceptions of the government’s ability to handle its responsibilities:

61% of respondents believe the government is capable overall, compared to 54% at the time the cabinet was formed and 51% after the first 100 days. In the 200-day survey, the figure was 65%.

Regarding Prime Minister Hassan specifically, 67% of the national sample viewed him as capable of managing the country’s responsibilities during his first year, up from 57% at formation and 55% after 100 days. The 200-day survey recorded 71% approval.

Opinion leaders mirrored this trend, with 67% rating the prime minister as capable, compared to 55% at formation.

For the rest of the cabinet (excluding the prime minister), 58% of respondents believe the current ministers are capable, rising from 50% at formation and 47% after 100 days, while the 200-day survey had 60% approval.

Optimism on National Direction

The survey indicated growing optimism among Jordanians:

57% believe the country is heading in a positive direction, up from 47% after 100 days and 55% at formation.

Conversely, 35% feel the country is moving in the wrong direction, down from 51% after 100 days and 40% at formation.

Support for Prime Minister’s Field Visits

Regarding the prime minister’s field visits, 65% of the national sample and 64% of opinion leaders expressed satisfaction. Additionally, 43% of Jordanians believe these visits have a positive impact on the governorates.

Services and Reform Efforts

A majority of respondents expressed confidence in the government’s service:

73% of the national sample and 60% of opinion leaders believe the government is doing everything possible to provide citizens with necessary services.

On the government’s ability to implement comprehensive modernization projects:

• 56% of opinion leaders and 44% of the national sample are optimistic about economic modernization.
• 61% of opinion leaders and 46% of the national sample are confident in public sector reform.
• 60% of opinion leaders and 48% of the national sample believe in the government’s ability to complete and strengthen political reforms.

Economic Outlook

The survey also showed an increase in optimism about personal economic conditions. 48% of Jordanians believe their economic situation will improve in the next 12 months, a 12-point increase from the 100-day survey conducted earlier this year.

Meanwhile, 20% expect deterioration, and 28% expect conditions to remain the same.

Views on Local Governance

On municipal and governorate councils:

• 55% of the national sample and 50% of opinion leaders support appointing mayors rather than electing them, compared to 38% of the national sample and 48% of opinion leaders who oppose.
• 51% of the national sample and 50% of opinion leaders support maintaining decentralized governorate councils.
• 43% of respondents confirmed their intention to participate in upcoming municipal and governorate elections.

Public Support for Recent Government Decisions

The survey highlighted strong approval for recent government measures:

• 95% of Jordanians support reinstating mandatory national service, believing it will foster patriotism and discipline.
• 76% expressed satisfaction with instructions to display the Jordanian flag on homes and buildings, versus 11% dissatisfied.
• 66% of respondents were unaware of the government’s plan to secure health coverage for 4.1 million citizens at the King Hussein Cancer Center starting next year.
• Regarding the recent cabinet reshuffle, 56% of the national sample and 37% of opinion leaders supported the changes.

Regional Affairs and International Relations

On regional issues:

• 61% of opinion leaders and 52% of the national sample are optimistic about the government’s ability to manage regional issues.
• 87% of Jordanians approve of the country’s stance on the Gaza war.
• 71% believe the conflict has strengthened Jordan-Palestine relations.
• Nearly 90% rate Jordan-Syria relations as very good or good.