Jordan is among the top five most water-stressed countries in the world and faces several development challenges as a result. This research brief explores the causes and risks associated with water scarcity in Jordan and draws links between water scarcity and the sustainable development goals.

Overview
Around 35% of the world’s population lives in water-scarce areas, and more than 1.5 billion people are affected by water-related diseases on an annual basis. Water related risks have been repeatedly ranked among the top global risks by the World Economic Forum. In the 2021 Global Risks Report, ‘natural resource crises’ which includes water resources, came in number 5 among the top global risks.

Without enhancing water security, it won’t be possible to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and not only SDG6, which seeks to ‘ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all’ but other SDGs as well. Water is essential for good health, food security, gender equality, sustainable economic growth, political stability, and an overall thriving ecosystem.

The research
Jordan is among the top five most water-stressed countries in the world and faces several development challenges as a result. Water shortage in Jordan is aggravated by environmental, social, and geopolitical factors and is currently posing heightened risks on the wellbeing and security of its population. This research brief is based on an extensive review of literature and explores the causes and risks associated with water scarcity in Jordan and draws links between water scarcity and the sustainable development goals.