The position of the Islamic Action Front of the political process in the period (1993-2013) in Jordan

Abstract

This paper aim at understanding if the IAF in Jordan could be plausibly described as a vehicle of democratization of the country starting from its historic role of collaboration with the Hashemite monarchy, we have showed its strong willingness to be part of the political process since its first establishment and its gross-rooted support among the Jordanian population. Moreover, we have seen that its high level of educated people among its ranks and leadership is highly likely to guide through a conscious use of the democratic rules of the game. Additionally, the IAF has experience of democratic practice because its inner structure is governed in a democratic way. Furthermore its political platform promotes key democratic principles such as the rule of law, accountability and freedom of expression. What is more is that it has demonstrated its credibility throughout its history of participation in the Jordanian political life, without promoting the overthrown of the regime by any means. To conclude, even if there are some criticalities, these are the one any Islamic party could be charged with and there are successful examples of Islamic party being governing democratic secular country, Turkey is the example above all. For all these reasons, I would argue that the IAF could positively be thought as an active agent of the process of democratization in Jordan.