In Jordan, few comprehensive studies have been conducted to provide an in-depth understanding of the key drivers of host community tensions. To address this information gap, this multi-sectoral REACH assessment aimed at identifying where tensions have emerged across northern Jordan as a result of the Syrian refugee crisis, and how they could be mitigated through social cohesion and resilience programming. In the shift from humanitarian relief to long-term development, the assessment aims to promote and inform the mainstreaming of a ‘Do No Harm’ approach in the response provided to conflict-affected populations residing in Jordanian host communities. Sectors assessed included: education, external support, healthcare, livelihoods, municipal services, shelter and water.

Main Findings

REACH assessment findings highlight that perceptions of cultural and behavioural differences between refugee and host communities have led some families to fear the impact of new negative influences on their children. This has prompted parents to call for the segregation of Syrian and Jordanian students in schools across northern Jordan. Anecdotal evidence from this assessment suggests that such demands are fuelled by fears of violence, discrimination and the spread of communicable diseases. Reports of social exclusion, bullying and harassment in and around schools have substantiated these concerns. Therefore, in order to allay fears, the GoJ has introduced a split school-day schedule whereby Syrians and Jordanians are taught separately in either morning or afternoon shifts. However, according to focus group discussions (FGDS) this has not dissuaded some Syrian and Jordanian families from resorting to homeschooling or preventing their children from attending school altogether in an attempt to protect them from the aforementioned concerns or to send them out to work for a living.