In Jordanian
politics, the role of the private sector is usually overlooked or addressed
biasedly — or in a way that is demonizing.
The
demonization of the private sector can be understood in the context of rising
populism and the rising perception of corruption, compounded with some of the
crony practices by some of the private sector and political elite. Despite
this, it is important to note that the Jordanian private sector, as a whole, is
suffering from structural distortions in the business environment that includes
corruption and the lack of transparency. What is needed is a meaningful
political reform that leads to robust reforms to the business environment of
the Jordanian private sector.
اضافة اعلان
It is important to note that the Jordanian private sector, as a whole, is suffering from structural distortions in the business environment that includes corruption and the lack of transparency.
The
relationship between a competitive free market, a strong private sector, a
healthy middle class, and democracy proved to be positive in the political
science literature. Barrington Moore argued that the existence of a capitalist
bourgeoise is a main driver of democratization, concluding that "no
bourgeoisie, no democracy". Similarly, Robert Dahl also concluded that
"polyarchal democracy has endured only in countries with the predominantly
market-capitalist economy". Many facts drove these scholarly conclusions.
First, economic
growth and social progress reduce social conflict, radicalization, and
conservatism, hence, improving the political culture and moving the voters from
being driven by anger and basic demands toward a more rational and educated way
of voting. Second, an economically independent citizen enjoys the affordability
of activism. Third, an independent private sector that is not dependent on the
state's financial support is a motive for the private sector to be more
influential in policymaking. Also, it is in the private sector's interest to
have effective parliaments that can introduce a fair and free regulatory
environment to facilitate economic growth.
An independent private sector that is not dependent on the state's financial support is a motive for the private sector to be more influential in policymaking.
Hence, the
Jordanian private sector must be encouraged to have a role in the new Jordanian
political life and party system; this is not only in the interest of the
private sector but also in the interest of the country as a whole, as a robust
private sector can contribute to economic growth, social progress, and
ultimately, to democracy.
To achieve this
goal, private sector elites should be encouraged to participate in political
parties and become politically active. Again, "no bourgeoisie, no
democracy," and Jordan needs a vibrant and independent private sector that
can act as a driving force for democratization.
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Jordan News
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