To gain a more thorough understanding of the increasing tensions between the Jordanian host communities and Syrian refugees living in the area.

Needs

Syrian community must begin to act as a community. Aid organisations should facilitate communication between Syrians locally. Provide social/recreational spaces where possible, and events at which they can meet and establish better communications with local community.

Main Findings

Cost of housing identified by both women ad men as single greatest worry. Rental prices increasing rapidly. A year ago average amount spent p/m on rent JOD50, now JOD150-200. Families of 12-15 members have been forced to share accommodation meant for numbers half that size. Jordanians demand imposition of price caps to shield them from price increases. Syrian refugees feel frustrated at aid community for not recognizing need for housing, and suspect Jordanians of exploiting them. Competition over jobs causes tensions. Labour exploitation of Syrian refugees considered common. A going wage of JOD5 p/d cited. Refugees report long working hours, sometimes with no day off. Jordanians blame Syrian men for pricing their labour below market rate. Syrians feel exploited by Jordanian bosses. Syrian families report being turned away from local schools. As girls have limited freedom of movement, some are beginning to show signs of depression as a result of isolation and boredom. Young men are also idle, but report feeling a heightened sense of hostility from Jordanians, and both Syrian and Jordanian adults cite tensions between young men as a growing area of concern. There are concerns that aid community is alienating urban refugees by diverting resources to Za'atari camp. Poor Jordanians blame Syrians for diverting aid attention and resources away from them. Differences in social norms also exacerbate tensions.