Amman: The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) inaugurated the Economic Empowerment Panorama Hub, also known as the Ecorama Hub, in Tunis Park, Irbid. This initiative is funded by the Dutch government and executed in collaboration with Irbid Greater Municipality and the International Labour Organization.
According to Jordan News Agency, UNHCR Assistant Chief of Mission, Rana Ksaifi, underscored the center’s role in fostering self-reliance and empowering both refugees and Jordanians through the creation of economic opportunities. The center is designed to host meetings, training sessions, and workshops aimed at skill development, employment enhancement, and entrepreneurship promotion. It is also intended to bolster the capabilities of both Jordanians and refugees, potentially aiding their reintegration if they return to their home countries.
Ksaifi expressed that the UNHCR views economic empowerment as crucial for achieving protection and promoting social integration. The project aspires to offer a nurturing environment for individuals to hone their skills, thereby contributing to the broader economic development of the community.
Joost de Vries from the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Jordan noted that the program supports community self-reliance in Jordan by focusing on job opportunities and safeguarding refugees and host communities, particularly targeting youth and women. He emphasized Jordan’s pivotal role in fostering collaboration among stakeholders and highlighted the program’s alignment with the Dutch development cooperation priorities in Jordan, which include supporting vulnerable groups, enhancing job opportunities, and empowering local authorities to address refugee issues.
Nabil Koufahi, President of Irbid Greater Municipality, expressed pride in the municipality’s collaboration with international and local entities such as UNHCR, the Dutch Embassy, and the International Labour Organization. He affirmed the municipality’s commitment to providing support and resources to develop job opportunities and programs for the residents of the governorate.
Dahlia Roque, Program Officer at the International Labour Organization, acknowledged ongoing efforts by Jordan and UNHCR to improve labor market conditions, empower workers, and foster sustainable economic growth through the creation of decent jobs, particularly targeting youth and women.
Osama Omari, Field Officer at UNHCR, and Municipality Representative Rabab Ali also shared details of the project during the event.