In May-June 2018, Jordan experienced its largest protests since the Arab Spring after Prime Minister Hani Mulki proposed IMF-mandated austerity: income tax increases, sales tax on basic goods, and subsidy cuts. Thousands marched nightly in Amman demanding Mulki’s resignation and King Abdullah II’s intervention against economic hardship.
Jordan’s economic crisis stemmed from Syrian refugee burden (1.3 million refugees, 20% population increase), regional instability cutting trade, and IMF loan conditions requiring fiscal reforms. The tax bill would have increased rates up to 25% for middle-income earners while corporations faced minimal increases.
Professional syndicates (doctors, engineers, teachers)—traditionally royalist—led unprecedented protests joined by Islamists, leftists, and youth. Demonstrators chanted “The people want the fall of the government!” and rejected IMF dictates.
King Abdullah dismissed Mulki on June 4, appointing Omar Razzaz as PM with promises to withdraw the tax bill and pursue reforms. Razzaz’s government diluted but didn’t abandon IMF requirements, implementing gradual subsidy cuts and taxes. Protests subsided but grievances persisted.
Jordan’s 2018 uprising demonstrated economic pressure’s ability to mobilize even traditionally loyalist middle classes, but also the monarchy’s survival skills through tactical concessions while maintaining fundamental policies. Unlike neighbors, Jordan’s stability endured—but remained fragile.
Sources: BBC Arabic, Al Jazeera, The Guardian, Jordan Times, Reuters