Description
Book SynopsisCurtis R. Ryan explains how Jordan weathered the turmoil of the Arab uprisings. Crossing divides between state and society, government and opposition, and struggles over elections, reform, and identity. Jordan and the Arab Uprisings is a definitive analysis of Jordanian politics before, during, and beyond the Arab Spring.
Trade ReviewI know of few analysts who understand the Kingdom of Jordan better than Curtis Ryan. Here he has provided an invaluable look into how this small nation, nestled in one of the most tumultuous regions in the world, has managed not only to remain stable and thrive, but to rise as a major power in the Middle East. -- Reza Aslan, author of
Zealot and
God: A Human HistoryJordan and the Arab Uprisings is a masterful analysis of Jordan’s domestic complexities—cultural, political, and economic—ever mindful of the impact of regional events. The description of identity politics is insightful, as is the description of issues that activate political movements. With discernment Ryan notes continuity and change as he unfolds the Jordan that exists today and provides wisdom for understanding what may follow. -- Edward "Skip" Gnehm, U.S. Ambassador to Jordan, 2001-2004
Ryan argues that Jordan did have an uprising beginning in 2011, and that fact that it took a different path from some of the other states does not mean that Jordan was exceptional. Jordan is often treated merely as a case of “regime survival,” but Ryan unpacks how the regime maneuvered on multiple fronts during its uprising. His expertise as a scholar of both international relations and comparative politics enables him to advance an innovative argument with theoretical import well beyond a case study. -- Jillian Schwedler, Hunter College, CUNY
Ryan's book is required reading for anyone who wants to understand the complexities of government and opposition throughout the region and the Hashemite Kingdom. Highly recommended. * Choice *
Ryan’s analysis is a must-read for those interested in contentious politics, public policy, international relations of the region, and — of course — Jordanian politics. * Middle East Journal *
Table of ContentsPreface and Acknowledgments
List of Abbreviations
1. Continuity and Change Amid the Arab Uprisings
2. The Arab Spring Protests in Jordan
3. Political Parties and the “Traditional” Opposition
4. The Hirak and Changes in Political Activism
5. Identity Politics, Real and Imagined
6. Struggles Over Elections and Electoral Systems
7. Rebooting Reform
8. War, Refugees, and Regional Insecurity
9. Jordanian Politics Beyond the Arab Uprisings
Notes
Bibliography
Index
