In a dynamic atmosphere like the Middle East, the concept of national security needs to be revised in order to successfully meet the challenges by providing effective and efficient tools to develop a more resilient society.
The new concept of national security cannot be limited to military and security issues as it has in recent years. It must successfully protect both citizens and the state against all threats and dangers. In order to do this we must include a wider range of issues such as diplomacy, micro-economic development, economic power, inter and intra state relations as well as internal and external communications.
National security needs to become a set of cells in the State brain that comprehensively and progressively considers strategies, policies and solutions, and implements them in order to navigate the road out of crisis. It must become a strategic mind that develops new and innovative solutions to problems of the state. It will become an essential component to boost the development process and enhance progressive thought in the country.
This kind of thinking is particularly needed in a country like Jordan. There are various areas that need this kind of new thinking in order to get better results. Socio-economic and local development, food security plans, unemployment, Education reform, agriculture, transportation and Energy plans, security and progressive anti terrorism strategies are just some of the serious challenges that need a new approach. The Jordanian economy needs massive reform from the bottom up, and this needs to start now before it is too late. A dependent economy that relies on external services and support is no longer sustainable. It must become an independent and productive economy, and that can only happen with a clear roadmap that is followed.
Obviously the new concept of national security must continue the deradicalization process, enhancing the capacity of the security apparatus and evolve in order to address the criminal and terrorism threats. It must partner with neighbors and the citizenry by building alliances and communicating more clearly in order to bring the power of the region to bear on these threats.
Integrating this new concept of national strategy should be part of the strategic vision of the state. Its role is to accurately diagnose the underlying issues and delivering effective and efficient solutions. It does not need a new organ in the state body, or a new institution, it can be simply small and nimble unit that coordinates the work among the state institutions, and teaches others how to think differently. The idea is to add a functional cell to the current brain to organize and harmonize the movement of the body.
Dr. Amer Al Sabaileh
