The article discusses the arrest of Prince Hamza, brother of King Abdullah II of Jordan, on April 3, accused of conspiring to overthrow the king, as part of an increasing wave of repression in Jordan. It reflects on the unfulfilled promises of the Arab Spring protests in Jordan ten years ago, highlighting the lack of political and institutional reforms, rampant corruption, and the growing power of the security apparatus. The economic situation is dire, with high unemployment and poverty exacerbated by the pandemic but rooted in structural issues. The government's budget shows systemic shortcomings, with heavy reliance on taxes and minimal spending on social welfare. Political stagnation and increased repression are noted, with crackdowns on journalists, activists, and internet freedoms. The article also touches on the alleged 'coup' involving Prince Hamza and Bassem Awadallah, which has led to increased skepticism among Jordanians about the government's narrative and actions.

The article critically addresses the issue of mobility in the study of international politics, focusing on the concept of resistance. It challenges the state-centric global project to normalize movement by arguing that resistance always comes first. The challenge pertains to who or what can move freely and when, and focuses on resistances to the normalization of movement from within and outside the movement itself. The paper is divided into three sections: the first acknowledges the importance of celebrating movement to reduce state-centric studies of international politics and to place borders, states, and drifting migrants in a sea of irregular movements. The second turns to an epistemological register of movements to recognize that celebrating movement can also depoliticize movement differences. Movement is not taken for granted but is treated as diagnostic and productive, considering the role of friction within and between movements. Frictions are not only the product of movement but also shape and materialize it. The final section argues that despite the emancipatory narrative linked to privileging ontological and epistemological approaches, resistance must always be positioned as a generative force that comes first. To think of resistance in this way, the concept itself must be redefined, not as opposition or reaction, but as a means of enduring escalation and indifference. The article suggests that if resistance is no longer seen as a voluntary action of the liberal subject, and resistance always comes first, then the frictions that unfold as movements inevitably reconfigure the geographical borders of countries.

The article discusses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Jordan's independent music scene. It highlights the challenges faced by bands like Ayloul in recording and engaging with fans during lockdowns. The scene, which gained momentum in the early 2000s and saw a surge after the 2011 Arab Spring, is now struggling with issues such as audience outreach, full-time dedication to music, and lack of live venues. Al Balad Theater, a key supporter of artists, is adapting by participating in virtual festivals like Oslo World. Despite the difficulties, bands are finding new ways to produce music and connect with fans online. The article also touches on the broader effects of the pandemic on the music industry and the potential for future growth in the scene.

Morad, a rapper from L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain, represents a new generation of urban music that has been largely absent in the predominantly white Spanish rap scene. Despite the significant Moroccan community in Spain, their contribution to rap has been minimal until Morad's emergence. His music, which resonates with French audiences due to its shared cultural references and sound, has gained popularity in France, featuring collaborations with French rap artists. Morad's lyrics reflect the struggles of life in Barcelona's poorer neighborhoods, and his visual style is simple yet authentic. Although not widely recognized in the Spanish rap scene, Morad has paved the way for other Arab artists in Spain, with the Arab drill scene becoming one of the most prolific sub-genres of Spain's urban music scene in just three years.

The article is a research piece that examines the food security policies in Jordan, Tunisia, and Egypt. It aims to identify and analyze the critical issues related to food security in these countries, assess the effectiveness of their current policies, and evaluate any gaps or challenges. The article also intends to suggest potential recommendations for improving food security and addressing malnutrition within these Middle Eastern and North African nations. The focus is on the effectiveness of the policies and their ability to tackle the challenges faced by these countries in ensuring food security for their populations.

The article discusses the economic impact of the coronavirus on Jordan's economy, particularly on the tourism sector and the private sector. Analysts had predicted GDP growth for Jordan this year, but the pandemic has put the country's economic recovery at risk. The tourism industry, which is a significant part of the economy, is facing severe consequences due to lockdowns, with businesses like Renaissance Viaggi and Auto Nation Rent a Car experiencing substantial losses and layoffs. The Jordanian government has implemented measures to mitigate the impact, including a $775 million economic injection and a pause on social security payments for businesses. Despite these efforts, the private sector is under pressure, with companies like JoBedu and Fanillah Apparel struggling to adapt. The article also touches on the challenges faced by workers, particularly those in informal markets, and the government's attempts to support vulnerable families. The IMF has renewed an economic aid package for Jordan, which is expected to help with unbudgeted spending due to the virus.

The article discusses the challenges faced by Jordanian students as schools close due to the coronavirus pandemic. Jordan shut down educational centers on March 15, affecting over four million students. The government and tech start-ups developed 'Darsak', an online platform with three websites: Idrak, Jo Academy, and Abwab, to facilitate home learning. Despite the platform's non-interactive nature, teachers use WhatsApp and Facebook groups to maintain communication with students. The article highlights the digital divide, as not all families can afford internet access or have suitable devices, and the government's response by broadcasting lessons on television. The teachers' strike earlier in the school year and the current lockdown are creating educational gaps and increasing the burden on students, families, and teachers. The article also touches on the psychological impact of the pandemic on families, the rise in domestic violence, and the importance of mental health discussions. Grassroots organizations like 'I learn' and 'Majlisna' are helping communities with blended learning methodologies and emotional support through a network of volunteers.

Mercy Corps celebrated the contributions of youth volunteers in Jordan under the project 'Youth Advancement for Peaceful and Productive Tomorrow [Peace Pro]' which focuses on providing psychosocial support to at-risk youth through training courses. The event recognized volunteers from Maan, Salt, and Rusaifa, emphasizing the importance of community and family involvement in youth development. Speakers shared their experiences, highlighting the personal growth and opportunities created through volunteering.