Champions of Dignity: King Abdullah II and Princess Majda Ra'ad's Legacy of Disability Advocacy in Jordan

Ammon

02-05-2025

Nations often showcase their wealth through natural resources, exceptional human capital, and scientific achievements. The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, though modest in natural resources compared to its neighbors like the Gulf States, possesses extraordinary wealth of a different kind. This wealth was recently highlighted through the Jordanian-German joint sponsorship of the 2025 Global Summit for Disability—an event that emerged from years of dedicated leadership and advocacy.Jordan's greatest asset, beyond its human capital, is its leadership—particularly a leader who exemplifies being a great human before being a great king. His Majesty King Abdullah II's most distinguished achievement is his unwavering advocacy for human security, especially concerning people with disabilities.While the principles of human security have long been integral to Hashemite leadership, they have flourished under King Abdullah II's guidance. His administration has introduced comprehensive legislation supporting the rights of people with disabilities, ensuring Jordan's commitment to relevant international agreements and conventions. This progressive approach has fostered specialized organizations and strengthened existing institutions dedicated to serving people with various disabilities, emphasizing their dignity, rights, and inclusion in all aspects of life—particularly education and employment.This humanitarian Hashemite vision was brilliantly championed by the family of HRH Prince Ra'ad bin Zeid, especially the late HRH Princess Majda Ra'ad. Her sincere dedication spanning over five decades to addressing the needs of people with disabilities through her leadership of the Al-Hussein Society - Jordan Center for Training and Inclusion (AHS) remains a legacy. This commitment received deserved recognition when the Ministry of Social Development selected AHS to participate in the Global Disability Summit and when the AHS school was officially renamed "Princess Majda Ra'ad School for Differentiated Education" during the organization's annual meeting on April 10, 2025—a school where education is customized to each student's unique potential.It is essential to highlight AHS's achievements as an exemplary model worldwide. The organization provides extensive services with limited resources and staff, reaching thousands within its facilities and in the field. AHS serves Jordanians and refugees who have found a safe haven in Jordan, both in camps and in surrounding communities.AHS's accomplishments offer valuable insights for addressing prevalent challenges in public services. Notable examples include their emphasis on comprehensive rehabilitation and educational services, incorporating regular counseling within the school schedule to empower children and promote healthy mental and psychological well-being. Despite operating with a modest budget and a small but versatile staff, AHS reached approximately 4,000 persons with disabilities and their caregivers in 2024, including refugees living in camps.Perhaps AHS's greatest achievement—one that truly embodies the vision, passion, and final wish of the late Princess Majda—has been transforming children's tears of sorrow into tears of joy. This transformation occurred through expanding the school from serving only through second grade to providing a complete six-year elementary education. Simultaneously, AHS has worked diligently to make all public and private schools accessible and to train future teachers from various universities with essential knowledge and skills. AHS's impact on higher education extends beyond teacher training; the organization introduced occupational therapy to Jordan and established the first academic programs in the Middle East.Finally, AHS's newly developed application, the "Ra'ad Platform for Community-based Inclusive Development (CBID)," connects families with nearby services, further enhancing the conditions and opportunities for people with disabilities.These remarkable achievements by the compassionate and dedicated late Princess Majda Ra'ad brilliantly translate King Abdullah II's advocacy for human security into tangible reality.As we reflect on the exceptional wealth of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, one cannot help but hope that the presidency of AHS will soon be filled by another compassionate member of the Hashemite Family—someone inspired by and committed to advancing His Majesty King Abdullah II's advocacy for human security.