The University of Jordan

Center for General University Requirements

Ethics, and Social Responsibility Course

Prepared by

The Course Team from The University of Jordan

Center for General University Requirements

2024-2025
 General University Requirements Center
Course of Ethics and Social Responsibility

Unit Two:

Sustainable Development and Social Responsibility

Section One: Voluntary Work

- The Importance, Motivations, and Obstacles of Voluntary Work

- The Culture of Volunteering and Cultural Diversity

- Fields and Challenges of Voluntary Work for University Students and Youth

Section Two: Sustainable Development

- Goals of Sustainable Development

- Goals of Sustainable Development in Jordan

Section Three: Social Responsibility and Civil Society Institutions

- Social Responsibility and Its Importance for Individuals, the University, and Society

- Institutions and the Implementation of Social Responsibility

- The Role of Social Responsibility in Achieving Sustainable Development

Application on Unit Two:

- The Strategic Plan of the University of Jordan - Goal Four: Effective Community Role

- Collective Initiative and the Implementation of Social Responsibility

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Unit Two:

Sustainable Development and Social Responsibility

Section One: Voluntary Work

- The Importance, Motivations, and Obstacles of Voluntary Work

- The Culture of Volunteering and Cultural Diversity

- Fields and Challenges of Voluntary Work for University Students and Youth

What is Voluntary Work?

Try to formulate the concept of voluntary work by using the following words: (time / effort / will /
compensation / society / others). Then read the suggested definition below and compare it with
your concept.

Voluntary work is the allocation of part of one's time and effort to perform a specific task
voluntarily and without any compulsion, without monetary compensation, with the aim of
contributing to giving, benefiting others, and advancing society.

Voluntary work is defined as the effort exerted by an individual or a group of individuals on their
own initiative, not under coercion or force, and without expecting any material return. Whether
the effort is intellectual, physical, material, or social, it is done in pursuit of reward and blessing
from Allah, as well as the elevation and development of society.

Voluntary work holds great importance in an individual's life through its practice. By engaging in
it, an individual becomes not only concerned with their personal needs but also with the needs of
others. Additionally, it provides a sense of psychological comfort and self-esteem for what the
individual contributes, as well as the bridges of communication built through volunteering, which
benefit the volunteer personally, as well as the groups who benefit from the voluntary work.

Volunteering also plays an important role in directing the leisure time that young people have
toward activities that benefit both themselves and society in a productive way. Learning to work
within a team: Voluntary work is often carried out as part of a collective plan involving a group of

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individuals from different backgrounds, both genders, and various ages. Therefore, it provides an
opportunity for individuals to work within an integrated team, making them capable of interacting
with a diverse group of people to ensure the success and completion of the work. As such, it is
considered more valuable than what is taught in schools and universities.

It is certain that volunteer work has significant importance and benefits for the life of the
community, including: increasing solidarity among its members and strengthening human
relationships. It also leads to the development of society in all aspects. The strength of human
relationships drives cultural and intellectual enlightenment, which in turn propels progress in
societies of all kinds. Volunteering also helps alleviate poverty as much as possible; often,
volunteers work to collect financial donations for those in need or for university students, or
individuals may volunteer at institutions that provide cancer treatment and care for patients and
their families. Volunteering fosters positive competition among individuals and groups. Like many
other humanitarian fields, volunteering encourages individuals to enhance their work and
performance in comparison to others, ultimately reflecting positively on society by increasing love
and unity among people, as well as boosting their social growth and cohesion. It works on
community development and enhances the values of loyalty and belonging to the nation. It fills
the gaps and deficiencies in the community's needs for certain skills.

Volunteering also helps official institutions, organizations, and associations meet the real needs of
the community. There are many reasons that motivate individuals and various organizations to
volunteer and engage in voluntary work, despite the time, effort, and financial resources it requires.
Some of these motivations are related to the feeling that comes after completing the volunteer
work, while others are unrelated to this feeling. However, all these motivations intertwine and
combine to result in a real commitment and responsibility that drives an individual to put forth
their best effort in these tasks. Among these are religious, psychological, social, personal, and
moral motivations.

However, it must be stated that these motivations are not the same across all societies. In advanced
societies, their members often engage in voluntary work for social reasons, aiming to achieve
accomplishments in terms of community relations, dealing with others, and spreading social
awareness among them. On the other hand, when compared to developing societies, individuals in
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these communities are often motivated by values, and perhaps religious reasons, especially if
religion holds a prominent position in the society.

Reflect on the following scenarios, then try to answer the questions that follow:

Scenario One:

Qais is a second-year student at the University of Jordan, studying at the Faculty of Arts, and he
helps his father in his carpentry shop during his holidays. When the university was affected by a
snowstorm during the winter, Qais was deeply moved when he saw the broken trees. He decided
to use his carpentry skills to make benches for the students to sit on. Qais presented his idea to the
Deanship of Student Affairs, and after receiving approval, he dedicated part of his time and effort
daily, without any compensation, for two months to complete the project. During this time, he
made five benches, which were placed on one of the university’s streets. Qais feels a sense of
satisfaction and happiness when he sees his classmates sitting on the benches he made.

- How would you describe what Qais did for the university?

- Qais did not receive any financial compensation for his work. Would it have been better for him
to invest his time in a job that would have provided him with financial returns?

- Explain why Qais feels satisfaction and happiness even though he exerted effort without
receiving compensation.

- If you possessed Qais's skills, would you have done the same work? Why or why not?

Scenario Two:

Layla studies at one of the scientific colleges at the University of Jordan. She was drawn to a
comment written by one of her friends on Facebook about the struggles of a group of students with
the English language subject in a public school and their fear of failing the General Secondary
Education Certificate Examination in this subject. Layla remembered that she had scored high
marks in English during her high school exams, and at that moment, she felt a sense of
responsibility towards these students, despite not knowing them personally. Layla contacted the
person who made the comment and asked him to arrange a meeting with the students. She decided

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to spend two hours every Saturday with the students to give them an intensive lesson. Layla
committed to a full academic year with the group, and after the results were announced, she was
overwhelmed with joy when every member of the group succeeded. Later, Salma wrote a tweet on
her Twitter account: "I remember well the joy of my success in the General Secondary Education
Certificate, but my joy today has a different flavor." "There is nothing more beautiful than being
the reason for others' happiness and serving the community."

- Discuss what Layla wrote: "There is nothing more beautiful than being the reason for others'
happiness and serving the community."

- Why did Layla feel responsible for the comment she read on Facebook?

- Have you ever been stopped by a comment posted on social media? What did you do at the time?

- Do you agree with Layla's actions? How would you have acted if you were in Layla's place?

"Through your understanding and discussion of the previous scenarios and questions, think and
then discuss any misconceptions in the following statements, if found."

• Volunteering is a charitable act, like other charitable activities.

• Volunteering requires an abundance of time.

• Volunteering needs funding.

• Volunteering is a form of exploitation because you work without compensation.

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Why voluntary work?

In your opinion, what were the motivations behind volunteering for both Qais and Layla?

Studies have shown that engaging in volunteer work helps enhance self-confidence, self-
awareness, and feelings of satisfaction. It also offers a free opportunity to acquire various skills,
expand knowledge, and fosters a sense of citizenship and civic engagement. Furthermore, it
reflects a student's positive commitment to their university, local community, and the global human
community.

Motivations for Voluntary Work:

- The main motivation for volunteer work is the desire to earn reward and virtue without material
compensation or earthly rewards, seeking the reward from Allah Almighty. Other motivations
include:

- The desire to achieve self-fulfillment, defend values, and promote principles that one believes in.
This motivation is a fundamental need for the human soul.

- The desire to increase self-respect, as individuals seek greater respect and appreciation that may
result from engaging in volunteer work.

- The desire to fill free time, as some people find themselves with a lot of time after their official
work, which could turn into boring idle time, and they find volunteering to be the best way to make
use of that time.

- The increased sense of social responsibility, which reflects an individual's accountability to

themselves regarding the society they live in, and their need to be responsible and an active
participant in building the community. Additionally, social responsibility is considered an essential
requirement for enriching a positive, interactive personality that aligns with society.

- The desire to learn, acquire new knowledge, and achieve personal growth. This drives many
individuals, both men and women, to volunteer their time and effort. Some may find that their jobs

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and careers have become routine and monotonous, failing to offer further knowledge or challenges
that are worth the effort.

- Feelings of self-satisfaction and the volunteer's sense of the importance of altruism through
activating service and helping others without any compensation.

- The motives for volunteer work are linked to the volunteer's age and their desire to engage in
volunteer work. As a person ages, their reasons for volunteering change. For instance, young
people, for example may wish to join volunteer work to gain companionship and acquire new skills
and knowledge. For middle-aged individuals, their motives for volunteering may stem from
dissatisfaction and frustration with their official jobs, seeking work that frees them from routine
and monotony, and perhaps looking for opportunities to achieve self-fulfillment and gain
recognition and respect. As for the elderly and retirees, their motivations for volunteering might
be driven by the search for a new role in life.

- The need for connection with others, as this innate human need leads individuals to join volunteer
work in order to have the opportunity to meet peers and expand their social circle. This is especially
true for young people, as meeting others can serve as a gateway to deeper integration into society
and gaining personal or other benefits.

What are the benefits of volunteer work for university students?

- In your opinion, how did both Qays and Layla benefit from volunteer work?

- Discuss the suggested benefits below in relation to the previous scenarios.

Personal benefits such as building new friendships, gaining experiences, and developing
employment skills like communication skills, which contribute to enhancing the resume. Societal
benefits such as contributing to alleviating some burdens on institutions and reducing deviant
behavior among youth.

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How do I choose volunteer work?

- Identify the skills, experiences, and knowledge that I possess and can offer in a useful way to
others.

- Choose the optimal time to engage in volunteer work, such as during academic semesters or
holidays.

- Set a specific duration for volunteer work, such as dedicating hours on a daily, weekly, or monthly
basis.

- Select the appropriate location to carry out the volunteer work.

Activity: Try to follow the previous steps and start by writing two skills, experiences, or areas of
knowledge that you possess and believe you can offer to others.

What are the appropriate local volunteer opportunities for university students?

- Education: For example, teaching English to a group of students in an underprivileged school.

- Environmental conservation: For example, cleaning parks and recreational areas, especially
during tourist seasons and holidays.

- Organizing cultural, recreational, or sports activities: For example, hosting a sports and
recreational day at orphanages or underprivileged schools.

- Maintenance and construction work: For example, contributing to painting halls at the university
or in underprivileged schools.

What are the obstacles to volunteer work?

- In your opinion, are there any obstacles to volunteer work?

- If yes, mention two problems that may hinder volunteer work.

- How can these obstacles be overcome?

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In a study conducted at Petra University in Jordan (Al-Zayoud and Al-Kubaisi, 2013), the obstacles
to volunteer work and the reasons for students' reluctance to engage in it, as identified by university
students, were as follows:

- Lack of structured programs to support and organize volunteers.

- Absence of motivation and encouragement.

- Lack of understanding of the nature of volunteer work and the community's urgent need for it.

- Insufficient available time.

- Fear of "shame" due to the widespread culture of shame.

- Fear of failure.

- Excessive bureaucratic complications.

Do you agree with all or some of the reasons? Why? In your opinion, are there other reasons that
are not found in this list?

Suggested activities to students during the meeting.

- Brainstorming to suggest other examples of volunteer work that a university student can
engage in. These activities can be categorized into those that can be carried out within the
university, in the local community, in specific institutions, or outside the kingdom.
- Conduct a two-minute debate between two students: one who is highly enthusiastic about
volunteer work and another who is pessimistic and unconvinced by the idea of
volunteering. The rest of the students must decide who was more persuasive and explain
why.
- Discuss the following idea: Volunteers have both rights and responsibilities.
- Conduct online research on quotes and sayings about volunteer work. Each student must
choose two quotes to share with the group, after which the most impactful quote will be
selected.

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- Create a poster aimed at raising awareness about volunteer work among university
students.
- Discuss how the concept of volunteer work is linked to the initiative to do good.

Reflect on the following comments made by some university colleagues, then discuss the
motivations behind these remarks. Identify and refute any misconceptions found in the
comments. Finally, consider whether the proposed volunteer activities align with your interests.

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I am not obligated to help clean the university,

especially since there are service workers who are
paid for their work

I applied to work with a global

non-profit organization
operating in Jordan, and what
I did not just know that I could
they focused on most during
volunteer my time, but I realized
the interview while reviewing
it when I spent a day with a child
my documents was the extent
in the hospital so that his mother
of my participation in
could go and check on her other
volunteer work.
children for the first time in a long
time. That made me feel
extremely happy.

My allowance is limited, and it barely covers my I excel in my studies and do

daily needs, so I am unable to participate in not like participating in the
volunteer work because it is costly. review sessions organized
by students because I will
not benefit from them,
neither materially nor
morally.

I don't know how a

Despite my strong love for volunteering, person who doesn't own
I am unable to do so due to the pressure a car can volunteer?
of studies and exams.

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I volunteer at the beginning of each year

by helping new students get to know the
university and its facilities. Honestly, the
feeling is very beautiful, especially since I
love my university a lot and wish that
others would love it as much as I do.

I feel that volunteering is just a

trend and nothing more, and not
What other activities are there in
something truly important.
volunteering besides cleaning and
painting?

I am twenty years old and started smoking

since the sixth grade, but I quit last year and
decided to launch a volunteer campaign to
combat smoking on social media platforms
such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. I
dedicate two hours daily to this, and this is
called virtual volunteering.

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What are the institutions that provide volunteer opportunities within Jordan?

Numb Institution Address - and contact method

er
1 United [Link]
Nations [Link]
Volunteer
[Link]
Program
UNHCR,
Training
Program at
the
Commissi
on,
UNICEF,
United
Nations
Developm
ent
Program
2 The 127 Al-Madina Al-Munawara Street, Amman
Jordanian P.O. Box: 5118 Amman
Hashemite +962 6 55 60 741
Fund for info@[Link]
Human
Developm
ent
3 King Queen Rania Al Abdullah Street
Hussein 202 Amman
Cancer 00962 6 530 0460

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Center
(KHCC)
4 Injaz 00962 6 565 7410
Foundatio 00962 6 565 7409
n
5 Tkiyet Um [Link]
Ali - Al-Jaysh Street - Al-Mahatta / Amman
Wayfarer
+962 6 4 900 900
(Daily Hot
info@[Link]
Meals

6 Jordan
Clothing Amman, Al-Mahatta, King Abdullah I Street - Building No. 42, Old
Bank Tobacco Company and Factory Building
Phone: 00962 6 4618130
Fax: 00962 6 4637120
[Link]@[Link]
[Link]]([Link]
)&MenuId=98

7 Jordan [Link]
Museum
8 Jordan
Food Bank
- Eng.
Kawthar
Al-
Qatarneh

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9 Jordan 2018 sub-number 0096265411479

Children's [Link]
Museum %D8%AA%D8%B7%D9%88%D8%B9
(Sama Al-
Damour)
10 King [Link]
Abdullah Skills/Pages/[Link]
II Fund for
Developm
ent -
FORUS.J
O
11 Jordan 00962799400850
Volunteers
- Dr.
Moatasem
Masalmeh:
Team
Leader
12 Jordan 00962 6 5933211
River [Link]
Foundatio
n -
Volunteer
Program
13 The 00962 6 5932257
National [Link]
Center for
Human
Rights

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14 Life )King Abdullah II Street (Previously Medical City

Makers Email: sunna3@[Link]
Associatio
Phone: +962 777840820 / +962 795333126
n
15 Bab Al- [Link]
Khair for
Voluntary
Work
16 Jordan
Caritas - Jabal Amman, 10 Omar Bin Al-Khattab Street
Volunteer
[Link]
Program,
enter_main.htm
Huda Al-
Phone: +962 6 4639032
Mashar
Fax: +962 6 4619005
P.O. Box: 2258, Amman 11181
Email: headoffice@[Link]

17 Generation [Link]
s For Peace /00
- His
Hussein Sports City, P.O. Box: 963772, Amman 11196
Highness
Phone: +962 6 500 4600
Prince
Faisal bin Fax: +962 6 568 2954

Hussein Email: info@[Link]

18 Nakhwa [Link]
Network
for
Voluntary

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Work -
Kamel Al-
Asmar -
Database
of
Volunteer
Opportunit
ies
19 My School 00962 6 461 2554
Initiative
20 Ministry of Phone: +962 5 604701
Youth - Fax: +962 5 604717
Various
P.O. Box: 1794, Amman
Programs
Email: web@[Link]

21 Crown King Hussein Business Park

Prince Building No. 1, Ground Floor
Foundatio
Amman, Jordan
n
P.O. Box: 84, Amman 11821
Phone: +962 6 5806161
Fax: +962 6 5806162

22 The )Website: [[Link]]([Link]

Hashemite Email: info@[Link]
Charity
Phone: +962 6 5523550 - +962 6 9023550
Organizati
Fax: +962 6 5537032
on
P.O. Box: 20832
Amman - Dabuq

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Unit Two:

Sustainable Development and Social Responsibility

Section Two: Sustainable Development

• Objectives of Sustainable Development

• Objectives of Sustainable Development in Jordan

Overview:

This concept began to emerge in international development literature in the mid-1980s, influenced
by new concerns about environmental conservation and the depletion of natural resources due to
the increasing number of environmental abuses and the rising global pollution levels. This situation
called for efforts to create fundamental balances in ecosystems. The concept also spread in
economic literature related to the Third World due to the setbacks in many development policies
that had led to the worsening of external debt, declining productivity, especially in the industrial
sector, and the expansion of social inequalities in many countries. In some cases, this even resulted
in famine or malnutrition among the poor, whose conditions worsened in the 1980s despite all the
investments made in the previous two decades.

For development policies to result in sustainable growth, they must not only respect the
environment in which people live, but also consider the ability of all social groups to endure and
benefit from change equally. For these reasons, the scope of the concept extended to human and
social issues, and development theories began to focus more on the goal of development, which is
the human being, and his health, cultural, and political conditions. This contrasts with previous
periods when the focus was on means of material development, specifically on increasing
investment rates, annual overall economic growth rates, and rising consumption levels of modern
industrial products.

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Definition of Sustainable Development:

Sustainable development is a development model characterized by rationality and sound judgment.

It focuses on achieving economic and social development on one hand, and preserving the
environment and natural resources on the other. Therefore, it consists of complementary processes
rather than contradictory ones. It is the only path to ensure a good quality of life for both current
and future generations by meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future
generations to meet their own needs. This can be achieved through preserving natural assets for
future growth and development. Sustainable development is a balanced, harmonious, and stable
economic and social development that aims to improve quality of life while protecting the
ecological system and ensuring that the quality of natural resources used in human activities is not
harmed. It also promotes incentives to reduce pollution, waste, and the current consumption of
energy.

In the 1997 report by the World Resources Institute, dedicated entirely to the subject of sustainable
development, twenty definitions of sustainable development were summarized and classified into
four groups: Economic, Social, Environmental, and Technological.

- Economically: For developed countries, sustainable development means reducing energy and
resource consumption. For developing countries, it means utilizing resources to raise living
standards and reduce poverty.

-Socially: Sustainable development means striving for stable population growth and improving
healthcare and educational services, especially in rural areas.

- Environmentally: Sustainable development involves protecting natural resources and

optimizing the use of agricultural land and water resources.

- Technologically: It refers to development that transitions society into an era of clean industries
and technologies that use the least possible amount of resources and produce minimal harmful
gases that damage the ozone layer.

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Sustainable Development Goals:

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), also known as the Global Goals, are a universal call
to action aimed at eradicating poverty, protecting the planet's environment and climate, and
ensuring prosperity and peace for all people everywhere. These are the same goals that the United
Nations works on in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, aiming to achieve three interconnected
outcomes:

1. Strengthening institutions: To make institutions in Jordan, both at the national and local levels,
more responsive, inclusive, accountable, and resilient.

2. Empowering people: Especially the vulnerable, to claim their rights and fulfill their
responsibilities to improve human security and resilience.

3. Enhancing opportunities: To ensure the inclusive participation of people in Jordan in the

economic, social, environmental, and political spheres.

These 17 goals are based on the successes of the Millennium Development Goals, but also include
new areas such as climate change, economic inequality, innovation, sustainable consumption, and
peace and justice, among other priorities. These goals are interconnected, making them key to
success in addressing issues that are more commonly linked together. When one of these goals is
achieved, other related goals are often realized as well. Local communities in Jordan are working
on achieving these goals, and some success stories will be highlighted.

Sustainable Development Goals, Their Dimensions, and Measurement Indicators

In 2015, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the 2030 Sustainable Development
Agenda, which has since become the main global tool for guiding public policies towards building
more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive societies. The agenda outlines 17 goals that address the
economic, social, and environmental dimensions of sustainable development. These Sustainable
Development Goals include 169 global targets, which are measured by 231 indicators to monitor
implementation at all levels of government.

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1- Eradicating Poverty:

Eradicating poverty in all its forms and everywhere is essential. Ensuring social protection for all
children and other vulnerable groups is crucial to reducing poverty. This can be achieved through
the establishment of appropriate social protection systems and measures at the national level for
everyone, setting minimum standards, and ensuring wide health coverage for the poor and
vulnerable. It also involves guaranteeing equal rights for all men and women, particularly the poor
and vulnerable, in accessing economic resources, as well as ensuring their access to basic services
and building the capacities of the poor and vulnerable groups.

Dreams of Carton

Abdullah, who is 14 years old, began attending the local "Makani" center in October 2020. He is
currently enrolled in a construction training and innovation lab, which he attends three times a
week. Abdullah's mother has also participated in several initiatives at the center and enrolled him
to benefit from the program's services. "I used to spend all my free time playing in the street, and
I felt bored. Now, I'm happy because I'm doing something useful in my free time," says Abdullah.

Four years ago, Abdullah's older brother, Adnan, began suffering from seizures, which led him
into a coma. Abdullah, who is only one year younger than his brother, was deeply affected by his
brother's health condition.

"As soon as my brother came out of his coma, our parents didn't allow him to have a
smartphone, so I decided to make something he could play with. I started watching online
videos to learn how to make toys from simple materials, and that's how I became interested
in building models from cardboard." Once Maysara learned about his unique hobby of building
skills, she encouraged him to pursue it and improve the designs he was creating. This support
helped him turn his idea into an initiative, allowing them to secure small funding to buy additional
materials and paint.

Through this initiative, Abdullah was able to achieve several Sustainable Development Goals,
including the eradication of poverty, quality education, and partnerships for the goals.

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From Abdullah's experience, we observe that his initiative, which began as a small idea born out
of hardship and difficult circumstances, has evolved into a project from which he earns profits.
This has allowed him to expand and develop his project, in addition to generating income that
improves his and his family's living and financial situation. In doing so, he achieved one of the
Sustainable Development Goals, which is the eradication of poverty.

2- Eradicating Hunger Completely:

Eradicating hunger, ensuring food security, improving nutrition, promoting sustainable

agriculture, and guaranteeing that everyone, particularly the poor and vulnerable groups, including
infants, have access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food year-round. It is essential to double
agricultural productivity and income for small-scale food producers, implement robust agricultural
practices that increase productivity and yields, help preserve ecosystems, and enhance the ability
to adapt to climate change and extreme weather events such as droughts, floods, and other
disasters. Additionally, measures must be adopted to ensure the proper functioning of essential
commodity markets and their derivatives, as well as facilitating access to timely market
information, including food reserves.

A Glimmer of Hope in the Time of Pandemic

Despite the challenging circumstances caused by the pandemic, Ghada decided not to give up and
started her business from home.

The past year had not been easy for Ghada. She fled to Jordan from Homs, Syria, in 2013. As a
mother of five girls, with no other provider, she had always struggled to cover her family’s
expenses. When the COVID-19 pandemic spread in 2020, schools were closed, and everyone was
forced to stay home, Ghada’s work at a local community center came to a halt. “I didn’t know how
I would survive. Our household expenses increased because I had to pay more for internet and
electricity to teach my daughters,” Ghada recalled.

However, Ghada decided not to give up. She had always been a passionate home cook, preparing
meals for friends and neighbors. After attending a training course offered by a local NGO and a

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partner of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Blumont, Ghada decided to turn
her passion into a business to support herself and her family.

Drawing on her heritage, Ghada began cooking traditional Syrian dishes to sell in her
neighborhood, and soon, kibbeh, makdous (pickled eggplant), yalangi (stuffed grape leaves), and
various types of pickles became her customers' favorites. "I make food that others don’t have the
time to prepare. But there's always a secret ingredient."

The pressure of not being able to provide for my family has faded. Now, I can buy essential things
for my children. I don’t have to rely on anyone," Ghada says. With this renewed purpose, Ghada
now feels that the future is brighter. She says she has found stability in Jordan and hopes to
continue growing her business. During Ramadan, her orders significantly increased, with
customers from distant places like Amman and Ma'an buying her products.

Thus, Ghada has achieved several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as eradicating
poverty, ending hunger, ensuring good health and well-being, achieving gender equality, and
reducing inequalities.

From Ghada's story, we see that after attending a training course provided by a local NGO and a
partner of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, this course honed her cooking
skills and helped her transform these skills into a project that aligns with several SDGs, including
ending hunger. The training course served as a concrete initiative towards achieving one of the
SDGs. It also helped her buy essential items for her children, thus contributing to the goal of
poverty eradication. Therefore, we can say that this initiative (offering training courses) is a clear
example of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

3- Good Health and Well-Being:

Ensuring that everyone enjoys healthy lifestyles and well-being at all ages by reducing the global
rate of deaths from multiple sources, such as diseases and accidents. This includes achieving
universal health coverage and access to healthcare services for all ages, ensuring access to quality
and effective medicines and vaccines for everyone, increasing funding in the health sector, training
and developing the workforce in this field, supporting research and development in vaccines and

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medicines for both communicable and non-communicable diseases, particularly those affecting
developing countries, and providing affordable access to essential medicines and vaccines.

When humanity is the driving force behind action, the standards of giving are elevated

Ammoun Mustafa, 58 years old, is a licensed midwife working at the reproductive health clinic of
the United Nations Population Fund in the Zaatari camp. She is one of the distinguished midwives
among thousands of others who save lives and make a difference in their communities. Ammoun
began her professional career in 1985, and since then, thousands of children have been born safely
in her hands. Despite working six days a week, she has no plans to retire, as she still feels capable
of giving. Ammoun worked in Syria for five years before moving to Jordan, her home country, in
1989. She worked in hospitals in Irbid city until she became a head midwife and was responsible
for the labor and delivery and neonatal departments in 2009. She later became the head of the
nursing department before joining the clinic in Zaatari, which is managed by the Jordanian
International Health Aid Society. When Ammoun interacts with women, she considers each one
as if she were her daughter or child. Therefore, she performs her role with all the determination,
strength, and resolve she has. She carries out her work with a smile on her face, moving from one
woman to another, offering advice to some, reassuring others, speaking with one as a friend, and
with another as a mother or sister. Over time, Ammoun has become an icon, not just in the
reproductive health clinic, but in the entire camp. Ammoun is the backbone of the clinic; she is the
mother of the place and the mother to everyone in it, and she breathes life into it." Ammoun's story
and perseverance are at the heart of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, including good
health and well-being, and gender equality.

From Ammoun's story, we can see that she utilized her experience as a licensed midwife working
in Syria, helping women in the Zaatari camp. She was passionate and loving toward her work
despite its challenges and the hardships she faces, as she works six days a week. However, she
chose to continue her work, becoming loved by everyone because she served them, helped them,
and offered advice. She has become an icon in her community. Ammoun's work touches one of
the most important Sustainable Development Goals, which is to provide good health and well-
being to others. It is evident here that receiving payment for work does not contradict the fact that

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it is a voluntary or charitable act, nor does it negate its nature as an initiative that benefits people.
Choosing to work in a field that benefits others is a decision not everyone may choose, but merely
choosing it—even if it is paid work—is a noble initiative and a work that one will be rewarded for.

4- Quality Education: It is ensuring quality, inclusive, and equitable education for all and
promoting lifelong learning opportunities for everyone. This means providing equal opportunities
for education at the early childhood, primary, and secondary levels, as well as access to vocational
and technical education. It also involves eliminating gender disparities in education and ensuring
equal opportunities for access to all levels of education and vocational training for vulnerable
groups, including people with disabilities, through the establishment of effective, safe, and
violence-free educational facilities for all.

Dr. Heba Al-Zaben is an example of how hard work and perseverance lead to great achievements.
She advises women and girls interested in science, saying: "You must believe in yourselves and
work hard, join scientific camps during the summer, search for scholarships, fellowships, and
opportunities, and never stop studying after completing your bachelor's degree." Since her
childhood, Dr. Heba wanted to become a scientist. "By the 10th grade, I decided I wanted to pursue
science. My father holds a PhD in civil engineering, has published many books, and encouraged
me to pursue mechanical engineering and continue graduate studies while conducting scientific
research." The L'Oréal-UNESCO "For Women in Science" program started in 1998, and every
year, dozens of women and girls from around the world benefit from it. These women aspire to
work in the field of science, and this program aligns perfectly with the 2030 Sustainable
Development Agenda, particularly Goal 4: "Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and
promote lifelong learning opportunities for all," and Goal 5: "Achieve gender equality and
empower all women and girls." Through Dr. Heba’s experience, she achieves more than one of the
Sustainable Development Goals, including quality education, gender equality, and sustainable
cities and communities.

5- Gender Equality in Rights:

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Achieving gender equality in rights by eliminating all forms of discrimination and violence against
all women and girls everywhere, such as human trafficking, child marriage, and early marriage.
Empowering all women and girls through full and effective participation at all levels of decision-
making in political, economic, and public life, as well as enabling them to have the right to own
and manage property.

Wardah Breaks Gender Stereotypes and Launches a Home Maintenance Business in Jordan

Wardah decided to turn her hobby of home maintenance into a profession, realizing that she could
utilize her skills and earn an income from it. For 43-year-old Jordanian Wardah, accepting the
gender roles dictated by society was not an option. Her journey began when she chose to break
stereotypes and challenge society by working in manual labor and carpentry to support her five
children.

Wardah decided to transform her hobby into a profession and recognized that she could leverage
her skills to earn a living. After attending one of the rehabilitation training courses organized by
the World Food Program, which focused on home maintenance, painting, and carpentry, Wardah
realized that she could also change the lives of many people in her community by encouraging
them to work with her. She now presents herself as a "professional in painting, carpentry, and wall
maintenance."

In 2019, Wardah was nominated for the Women Stop Hunger Awards, which advocate for
women's economic equality and provide resources for a world free of hunger. For Wardah, winning
the award was a turning point in her life. Thanks to a 10,000-euro prize, she was able to implement
numerous projects and overcome significant challenges. Wardah was also able to establish her
own home maintenance and construction business. Through her new venture, "Stars," she
employed women and men from her community, offering them training and a source of income.
Wardah used the prize to expand her business; she purchased tools for wall cleaning and a car to
facilitate the transportation of her team to serve clients.

Through her work, Wardah achieved several Sustainable Development Goals, including gender
equality in rights (the right to work), decent work, economic growth, industry, innovation,
infrastructure, reducing inequalities, and creating sustainable cities and communities.
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It is clear that Wardah, by attending the appropriate training courses, was able to turn her hobby
in carpentry into a real profession from which she earns money to meet her financial needs and
obligations. Her persistence in continuing her work was not deterred by society’s perception of the
nature of her job, especially since the work she does is respectable, preserves her dignity, and suits
her as a woman. In this way, one of the Sustainable Development Goals—gender equality in
rights—was achieved.

Salam Al-Lou, 27, sought refuge in Jordan in 2013. After working as a site supervisor at the
UN's Waha Center in the Za'atari refugee camp, she continues to volunteer at the place that
she believes helped her find herself.

"My name is Salam Al-Lou and I am 27 years old. I am from Daraa, Syria, and I arrived in
Jordan in 2013. I came with my husband and his family. At that time, I did not have any
children, but I was pregnant. I suffered a miscarriage on my way to Jordan due to the
difficult circumstances we faced. We have been here in the camp for 9 years, and I now have
two daughters and a son. I heard about the Waha Center from the women in the camp—the
community that..."

"I live in it. I was told that it is a 'sanctuary' where women feel at ease. The experiences of people
in the sanctuary have been very positive. I was told that it is different from all other places because
it is exclusively for women, which encouraged me to apply. I joined the Oasis Center in July 2021
as a site supervisor. I was responsible for the women here and the place in general. Initially, my
husband opposed the idea of my working, but he was immediately convinced after listening to the
experiences of other women. My work here has also taught me how to become stronger. I want to
especially thank Mrs. Rawan, as she supported me in my personal growth journey. I now feel that
I can face any challenge and deal with it with my strong personality. I used to feel anxious and
fearful often, but that is no longer the case. Work really helps you grow and develop, and you feel
like a productive member of society. Work makes you feel that your identity is more than just your
children and your home. You are no longer confined to a specific role. You go out, meet people,
and people meet you... you provide support to others and receive it yourself. During the COVID-
19 pandemic, especially, the situation was very difficult. Schools were closed, and we felt
distressed. However, my work enabled me to provide private tutoring for my children. I would not
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have been able to afford the cost of education without my job here. I was also able to provide food
and proper clothing. My experience at the Oasis Center helped improve my living standards. The
pandemic was exhausting, and I could not go out or interact with anyone because I was afraid for
my children's health. Things improved when I joined the Oasis Center. I was also able to bring my
children with me to work, which was great because I did not have to worry about them while
working."

From Salam's story, we can observe that her work in a suitable environment helped her provide
for her needs, her household, and private lessons for her children. This work also aligns with
several sustainable development goals, including gender equality in rights, the complete
eradication of poverty, and the elimination of hunger.

6- Clean Water and Sanitation:

Ensuring the availability of water and sanitation services by providing equitable access to safe and
clean drinking water for all, as well as access to sanitation services. Improving water quality by
reducing pollution, halting the disposal of waste and hazardous chemicals, and supporting and
enhancing community involvement in improving water and sanitation management.

7- Ensuring Access to Affordable, Reliable, Sustainable, and Modern Energy for All:

This goal focuses on providing everyone with affordable access to reliable modern energy services.
It aims to achieve a significant increase in the share of renewable energy and expand infrastructure
while improving technology levels to provide modern and sustainable energy services to all,
especially in developing countries.

8- Decent Work and Economic Growth:

This goal focuses on fostering steady, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and
productive employment, and the provision of decent work. It aims to achieve higher levels of
economic productivity through diversification, technological advancement, innovation, and the
enhancement of development-oriented policies that support productive activities, decent job

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opportunities, self-employment, and the ability to innovate and create. Additionally, it emphasizes
improving the efficiency of global resource use in consumption and production, boosting the
capacity of local financial institutions to promote access to banking, insurance, and financial
services for all, and expanding their reach.

In October 2021, Fatima and other Syrian refugees began working with the United Nations
Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the International Labour
Organization on the "Midad" project funded by the European Union. This joint project provides
suitable short-term job opportunities for Jordanians and Syrian refugees. During their work, they
conducted maintenance, rehabilitation, and protection tasks at six archaeological sites in the
Mafraq and Irbid governorates in the north. Fatima worked on several tasks, such as clearing weeds
along the Roman path and building new pathways to provide alternative routes for tourists at the
site. They also constructed water drainage systems around the site to reduce the harmful effects on
the landmarks and pathways caused by rainfall. Fatima said, "I feel like a hardworking woman
because of this opportunity to work in the host country. I have paid off my accumulated debts and
bought a tablet and e-learning cards for my son so that he could attend online classes during the
pandemic." She added that for the first time since arriving in Jordan, she had regained her self-
confidence. A total of 187 Jordanians and 66 Syrians (including Fatima) worked at the Umm Qais
Hellenistic Roman site. They cleaned the site, rebuilt some walls, erected a fence around the area,
preserved mosaic floors, built resting areas for visitors, and created water drainage pathways and
new pathways to make the site more accessible to tourists.

From Fatima's experience, it is clear that several Sustainable Development Goals were achieved,
including the eradication of poverty, the elimination of hunger, decent work, and economic growth.
This was all accomplished as she felt like an active member of the community and gained
confidence in herself through her work on the Midad project, where she participated in
maintenance tasks and organizing the Roman path and building new routes to provide alternative
ways for tourists to access the site.

The mere creation of job opportunities and the effective contribution of individuals is enough to
instill a profound sense of achievement and the ability to bring about change. This resonates with
many of the Sustainable Development Goals. Therefore, our initiatives and voluntary actions must
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be distinguished and go beyond the conventional norms of typical projects, ensuring their lasting
impact on the targeted individuals.

9- Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

By establishing resilient infrastructure, promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and

encouraging innovation. Additionally, increasing access to financial services for small-scale
industrial enterprises, supporting the development of local technology, research, and innovation.
There should also be a significant increase in access to information and communication
technologies, with efforts made to provide affordable and universal access to the internet.

Safe and Green Public Space in Ghaour Al-Safi to Improve the Socioeconomic Conditions
for Women

The United Nations Human Settlements Programme, in collaboration with the United Nations
Office for Project Services and the International Labour Organization, has completed the design
of a safe and inclusive public space as well as a community center in the Dead Sea area. This
design is part of the project "Socioeconomic Empowerment of the Most Affected Women in the
Dead Sea Area by Improving Access to Safe and Green Public Spaces," funded by the United
Nations Multi-Partner Trust Fund for COVID-19 Response and Recovery. It was developed in
collaboration with Heritage Office for Engineering Consulting and Urban Design.

The project, which will be implemented in partnership with the Southern Ghor Municipality and
the Zaha Cultural Center, aims to enhance the social and economic conditions of the most affected
women in the Dead Sea area by creating a safe, inclusive, and green public space, as well as
generating livelihood opportunities. The design of the public space includes inclusive and safe
play areas for children of all ages, including children with disabilities, shaded seating areas, and a
dedicated market area that will serve as a platform to create livelihood opportunities for the most
affected women. Additionally, the design includes a designated area for sustainable farming
practices.

The design also features a community center, which has been rehabilitated and expanded within
the public space. This center will host various social, cultural, and capacity-building activities,

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including specialized training on entrepreneurship skills and livelihood creation to empower

women in the community and improve their social and economic conditions.

Overall, the project aims to empower women in the community by providing training opportunities
for entrepreneurship and business development, enabling them to create livelihood opportunities,
and fostering a supportive environment through the development of the safe and inclusive public
space, including the market area and the rehabilitation of the adjacent community center.

This project will address several Sustainable Development Goals, including: Gender Equality,
Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, Reduced Inequalities, Sustainable Cities and
Communities, and Climate Action.

10- Reducing Inequality:

Reducing inequality within and between countries, and empowering and enhancing social,
economic, and political inclusion for all, regardless of age, gender, disability, race, ethnicity,
origin, religion, economic status, or any other factor. It also ensures equal opportunities and aims
to reduce inequality in outcomes, including through the removal of discriminatory laws, policies,
and practices, and promoting appropriate legislation, policies, and measures.

In November, Nawal said she was worried about the approaching winter season. Her apartment
was damp, water leaked from the ceiling when it rained, and her family was also in urgent need of
a new gas heater.

"Last winter, we had nothing but two blankets to keep us warm," she said. "My daughter, Raneem,
gets sick quickly from the cold, and I cannot afford the cost of her treatment."

Nawal’s family had been accustomed to receiving monthly cash assistance from the UNHCR, but
it was cut off two years ago due to a lack of funding. However, in 2020, she received COVID-19
relief assistance, which helped cover her living expenses. Over the past year, affording anything
beyond the essentials—such as rent, electricity bills, and medication—had been extremely
difficult.

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On November 18, 2021, at 11:45 AM, everything changed! Nawal received a text message from
the UNHCR informing her that her family would receive winter assistance for that year.

"I cannot describe my feelings right now. The winter assistance is a blessing for me and my
family," she said.

For Nawal, this meant she could pay off overdue rent, buy medicine for her daughter, and prepare
for winter by purchasing gas cylinders for heating and carrying out long-needed home repairs to
stop the water leakage.

We observe that these and other forms of assistance provided by the United Nations High
Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) play a significant role in achieving many Sustainable
Development Goals, including industry, innovation, and infrastructure; reducing inequalities;
creating sustainable cities and communities; eradicating poverty; and eliminating hunger.

11. Sustainable Cities and Communities:

This goal aims to make cities and settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable by ensuring
access to adequate, safe, and affordable housing and essential services for all, as well as improving
slum areas. It also seeks to provide safe, accessible, affordable, and sustainable transport systems
for everyone, enhance road safety—particularly by expanding public transport—and give special
attention to the needs of vulnerable groups, including women, children, persons with disabilities,
and the elderly. Furthermore, it aims to guarantee access for all to green spaces and safe, inclusive,
and accessible public places, especially for women, children, older adults, and persons with
disabilities.

Irbid, located in northern Jordan, is a city rich in traditions, cultural expressions, and local
knowledge, with a long history of migration due to its geographical location and the geopolitical
context of the region. This has contributed to the diversity of culture and traditions in the city,
making it a strategic site for UNESCO’s project on intangible cultural heritage inventory. The
coexistence of rich and diverse traditions alongside modernity led to Irbid being nominated as the
Arab Capital of Culture for 2022.

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In partnership with the Ministry of Culture and the National Petra Association, UNESCO trained
11 young people from Irbid to identify and document their intangible cultural heritage. The project
was funded by Young Xin Hua Yun Investment and Cultural Industry Group Co., Ltd., as part of
a global initiative to document living heritage practices, such as oral traditions, local knowledge,
and traditional skills in an urban context.

One participant, Ms. Roua Gharaibeh, a graduate student in social anthropology at Yarmouk
University, stated:

"Through our specialization, we have worked on oral history and tangible cultural heritage.
Honestly, this was the first time we engaged in documenting intangible cultural heritage in an
urban context, especially here in Irbid, at a time when it was declared the Arab Capital of Culture.
This is something truly important for us."

As noted from the above, this UNESCO initiative, which trains 11 young men and women from
Irbid, touches upon an important Sustainable Development Goal: making cities and local
communities sustainable by documenting their intangible cultural heritage. Such initiatives are
essential for cities that experience significant cultural diversity among their populations, especially
border cities that may host diverse cultures under certain circumstances.

12- Responsible Consumption and Production:

This involves the establishment of sustainable consumption and production patterns by

significantly reducing waste production through prevention, reduction, recycling, and reuse. It
aims to achieve sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources, while ensuring that
people everywhere have access to relevant information and awareness about sustainable
development and lifestyles in harmony with nature.

One of the initiatives carried out by students at the University of Jordan involved collaborating
with a company specializing in paper recycling. They purchased a set of recycling bins from the
company and placed them in the areas with the highest student traffic on campus. After a few days,
they noticed that students were placing all types of waste, both paper and non-paper, in these bins.
To address this issue, the students put up signs near the bins, informing their peers that the bins

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were designated for paper waste only. According to the agreement with the recycling company,
the students in charge of the initiative contacted the company when the bins were full of paper.
The company would then come to empty the bins, weigh the paper waste, and replace it with
printing paper of the same weight as the paper waste that was collected. The new paper, ready for
printing, was then placed in the computer labs for students to use for printing their research papers
and notebooks.

13 - Climate Action:

By taking urgent measures to address climate change and its impacts, enhancing resilience and the
ability to withstand climate-related risks and natural disasters in all countries, strengthening
adaptability to these risks, and integrating climate change measures into national policies,
strategies, and planning.

14- Conservation and Sustainable Use of Oceans, Seas, and Marine Resources for
Sustainable Development:

By preventing and significantly reducing all forms of marine pollution, particularly from land-
based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution; sustainably managing and
protecting marine and coastal ecosystems to prevent significant adverse impacts; taking necessary
actions to ensure the health and productivity of oceans; and eliminating overfishing, illegal,
unregulated fishing, and destructive fishing practices.

15- Protection, Restoration, and Enhancement of the Sustainable Use of Terrestrial

Ecosystems, Sustainable Forest Management, Combating Desertification, Halting and
Reversing Land Degradation, and Stopping Biodiversity Loss:

This involves ensuring the conservation and restoration of terrestrial ecosystems and freshwater
ecosystems and their services, particularly forests, wetlands, mountains, and drylands, ensuring

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their sustainable use in accordance with international agreements, combating desertification,

restoring degraded lands and soils, including areas affected by desertification and drought, and
taking urgent and significant actions to reduce the degradation of natural habitats, halt biodiversity
loss, protect endangered species, and prevent their extinction.

16- Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions:

Promoting peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, ensuring access to justice
for all, building effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels, significantly
reducing all forms of violence, and ending abuse, exploitation, human trafficking, and all forms of
violence against children and their torture. Additionally, establishing effective, transparent, and
accountable institutions at all levels.

The story of Najwa Najdawi, a United Nations Police Officer from Jordan, is as follows:

"I joined the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus in January 2021 as a patrol officer in
Sector 2. At that time, I already had thirteen years of experience in law enforcement in my home
country, Jordan. Here in Cyprus, I work daily with my military and civilian counterparts to
contribute to maintaining and restoring law and order in the buffer zone. Part of my duties includes
monitoring civil activity in our operational area, and in general, assisting in the return to normal
conditions within the region. I also interact with my local police counterparts on both sides of the
island. Peacekeeping in Cyprus is a challenging experience, given the political circumstances, but
it is extremely rewarding, thus achieving the goal of peace, justice, and strong institutions."

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Podcast... The Voice of Youth Without Borders

The rise of podcasts as a preferred and ongoing form of entertainment, along with their easy
accessibility on smartphones and other devices at any time while on the go or multitasking, is one
of the main reasons driving the expansion of the podcast industry.

UNESCO in Jordan, with support from the International Programme for the Development of
Communication, launched two podcast initiatives. One focused on media and information literacy,
and how media can be used to combat misinformation, while the other centered on the stories of
youth, the challenges, and difficulties they faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. These initiatives
targeted 40 young men and women, including journalists, media professionals, or activists in
media literacy, information literacy, and freedom of expression. The partnership aimed to spread
media and information literacy skills, empower youth, and provide them with the appropriate tools
to enhance their skills and capabilities in creating digital content in Arabic. In addition, participants
were trained to produce their own podcast programs.

The two initiatives were carried out in collaboration with two leading podcast networks in Jordan,
(Sawt) and (Sada Podcast).

Sawt is a podcast platform that produces and distributes high-quality Arabic-language audio
programs, aiming to create a space for dialogue and discussion on important topics for Arabic-
speaking listeners worldwide. Sada is a podcast network that produces programs covering
community issues, politics, culture, self-development, individuals with disabilities, women and
youth, entrepreneurship, and media and information literacy.

Wissam Khalifa was one of the pioneers in the podcast industry, covering stories from
marginalized groups in the Arab region. He worked on a podcast that included stories of young
people from the Arab world who joined violent extremist groups but were fortunate enough to
return home after realizing they no longer wanted to be part of these groups. Their experience was
shaped by being persuaded to join by others.

Wissam's podcast reached over 100,000 listeners, and what he did was of great importance. He
provided a platform for people to share their stories, disregarding the fact that they were often

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ostracized by society. Believing in freedom of expression and equality, Wissam's work was pivotal
in telling people’s stories in a fair and representative way, ensuring their voices were heard across
the Arab region.

17- Partnerships for Achieving Goals:

This refers to enhancing implementation tools and activating global partnerships for sustainable
development, as well as strengthening the mobilization of local resources. This includes providing
international support to developing countries, ensuring that developed countries fully fulfill their
commitments in the area of official development assistance, and mobilizing additional financial
resources from various sources for developing countries.

This objective can be illustrated through the following story, which was implemented in the local
community:

The agricultural engineer Alaa Thalji is a young woman who participated in the joint training
program between UNICEF and the World Food Programme. Her project focuses on recycling
fruit and vegetable peels to produce a chemical polymer capable of removing 99% of heavy metals
from water. She explains that she came up with the idea during her second year of university and
said:

"I took courses in a subject called ‘Chemical Environmental Pollutants’, where we learned about
the risks these pollutants pose to our health. In addition, I studied another course called ‘Drinking
Water Treatment’, in which our professor explained that water containing heavy metals is not safe
for consumption. This made me think about the many water sources that, unfortunately, we cannot
utilize. I then began working on developing a safe, organic chemical polymer made from citrus
fruit peels to remove 99% of heavy metals from water."

This initiative contributes to several goals, including ending poverty, eliminating hunger,
ensuring good health and well-being, addressing climate action, and fostering partnerships
to achieve these objectives.

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Unit Two:

Sustainable Development and Social Responsibility

Section Three: Social Responsibility and Civil Society Organizations

First: Social Responsibility and Its Importance for Individuals, Universities, and Society

The Emergence of the Modern Concept of Social Responsibility

Social responsibility refers to an organization's commitment to societal obligations beyond profit-

making, as its strategic decisions impact the broader community, not just its internal operations.
An organization’s strategic plan should reflect its commitment to the external environment and the
surrounding society. Some researchers have noted that the concept of social responsibility began
to emerge when organizations took initiatives to improve internal working conditions, such as
enhancing employees' quality of life, providing healthcare, and increasing wages. However, the
concept has evolved into a more comprehensive approach, focusing on improving overall quality
of life, promoting social stability, strengthening social solidarity, and ensuring inclusivity for all
members of society without discrimination.

The modern concept of social responsibility reflects a growing global awareness of the need to
integrate ethical and humanitarian values into the business framework. Companies are no longer
solely focused on generating profits; they are also expected to fulfill their commitments to society
and the environment.

The United Nations Secretary-General, in his speech at the 1999 Davos Conference, played a
significant role in redirecting institutional focus toward this approach. He called for leveraging
market forces to promote ideals based on three fundamental pillars:

-The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948): Affirming the fundamental human rights that
every individual is entitled to, which companies should respect and support.

-The Rio de Janeiro Declaration on Environment (1991): Committing to sustainable environmental

practices to protect the planet and preserve its resources for future generations.

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-The Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work (1998): Ensuring respect for
workers' rights, including the right to unionize and fair working conditions that uphold human
dignity.

These three principles form a comprehensive framework that seeks to balance economic growth,
human rights protection, and environmental sustainability.

However, the concept of social responsibility is not exclusive to the modern era. Throughout
history, various civilizations, including Islamic and Western civilizations, have recognized the
importance of working for the welfare and advancement of society. In Islamic thought, social
solidarity and moral obligation are fundamental pillars in the relationship between individuals and
society. Islam emphasizes mutual responsibility, both among individuals and between individuals
and the broader community. Similarly, Western civilization has witnessed a profound
philosophical evolution of this concept, linking virtue and ethical conduct to the progress of
society. This is reflected in the contributions of philosophers and thinkers who advocated justice
and fairness, both at the individual and institutional levels, to ensure collective well-being.

Thus, social responsibility can be considered an integral part of human civilization's development,
aiming to achieve comprehensive progress that balances economic, social, and environmental
dimensions to build a more humane and sustainable society.

In the 20th century, particularly after World War II, the concept of social responsibility gained
momentum. Western critics began questioning the ethics and effectiveness of liberal economic
principles governing businesses and the media. The media industry, in particular, became profit-
driven, often prioritizing financial gain over societal values and ethics. As a result, content that
clashed with moral and cultural norms was produced as long as it generated revenue. This intense
profit-driven mentality reinforced the idea of "maximizing profits” at all costs, leading to ethical
deterioration on multiple levels. In response, reform movements emerged to address the resulting
social crisis and advocate for greater corporate responsibility.

In the field of business, issues related to ethical behavior in the economy have emerged, as markets
have relied on absolute freedoms in trade, without considering the potential harms that may affect

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individuals and marginalized groups in society. This approach has led to the emergence of several
negative changes in capitalist societies, the most prominent of which are as follows:

1. Harm to consumers through product quality fraud and price manipulation.

2. Harsh working conditions, where workers suffered from work environments that threaten their
health and safety, without providing adequate protective measures.

3. The decline in the quality of life, especially in rural areas and even in major cities, as a result of
the withdrawal of business organizations from fulfilling their duties and responsibilities towards
society.

4. Neglect to improve the quality of work life, which reflected in the lack of skills among workers,
limited opportunities for long-term development, along with practices of discrimination against
employees based on gender, age, or race.

5. Doubts about institutional corruption, including the widespread use of large bribes to obtain
contracts and tenders.

6. The worsening of environmental pollution due to industrial processes, with factories failing to
treat their waste or reduce their negative impacts on the environment.

This deterioration in social and environmental values led to increasing demands for business
organizations to adhere to their ethical responsibilities. Calls for enhancing social justice and
achieving sustainable development became an integral part of reforms, aimed at restoring the
balance between profit-making and commitment to social and environmental responsibilities. The
focus on these issues was reflected in:

- Environmental concern and corporate social responsibility.

In recent years, there has been an increased focus on the role of institutions and companies in
addressing environmental issues following numerous disasters that caused significant
environmental and human damage. Examples of these crises include: air pollution caused by
industrial emissions, climate change due to rising greenhouse gas levels, river and beach pollution
resulting from chemical spills, and soil contamination from excessive use of pesticides and

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synthetic fertilizers. In the face of these challenges, it has become essential for companies'
responsibilities to extend beyond direct profits, actively contributing to the development of the
communities in which they operate, preserving the environment, and reducing pollution and
destruction.

- The need for a sustainable development model.

Over the past three decades, there has been a growing recognition that the traditional development
model, based on modernity and a consumerist lifestyle, is no longer capable of achieving
sustainable development. This model has resulted in excessive consumption of natural resources
and the emergence of severe environmental crises, such as:

1- Loss of biodiversity: The expansion of economic activities has led to the extinction of
many living species.

2- Decline of tropical forests: Due to excessive deforestation for trade and agriculture.

3- Air and water pollution: Caused by industrial emissions and chemical pollutants in
freshwater sources.

4- Global warming and rising temperatures: Leading to destructive climate changes,

increased severity of floods, and droughts.

5- Depletion of non-renewable natural resources: Such as oil and minerals, posing a threat
to future economic and environmental security.

6- Rising sea and river levels: Causing floods that have swept across vast coastal areas,
endangering the lives of residents in those regions.

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-Transition to a Sustainable Development Model

It has become essential to adopt a sustainable development model that balances achieving
economic goals on one hand and protecting and maintaining environmental sustainability on the
other. This model requires redirecting corporate activities to become part of environmental and
social solutions by:

 Reducing carbon emissions and adopting strategies to limit pollution.

 Improving waste management and promoting recycling instead of random waste disposal.
 Supporting local communities by providing jobs and enhancing residents' skills.
 Investing in renewable energy as an alternative source to fossil fuels.

Regulating Corporate Social and Environmental Contributions

The modern approach to corporate social responsibility is increasingly focused on transforming

these contributions into a legal obligation. The state or specialized civil institutions impose legal
regulations to collect these contributions and direct them toward social and developmental
purposes. The goal is to encourage companies to adopt responsible practices that contribute to:

 Funding development projects, such as infrastructure, healthcare, and education.

 Strengthening social cohesion by reducing social inequality and supporting marginalized
groups.
 Minimizing pollution and protecting natural resources through sustainability-focused
environmental programs.

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The Role of Media and Community Awareness

The media has played a key role in promoting the concept of social and environmental
responsibility through community awareness campaigns. These efforts have led to:

 Increasing public awareness of the importance of corporate involvement in sustainable

development.
 Pressuring institutions to adopt responsible and transparent policies.
 Enhancing the reputation of companies engaged in these initiatives, thereby strengthening
consumer trust.

The Positive Impact on Corporate Performance

Adopting principles of social and environmental responsibility not only enhances a company's
public image but also improves its overall performance. Companies that demonstrate commitment
to society and the environment benefit from:

 Increased customer satisfaction, leading to stronger brand loyalty.

 A positive work environment, which boosts employee productivity.
 Attracting investments from investors who prefer responsible and sustainable companies.
 Achieving sustainable profits by balancing economic growth with social responsibility.

Amid current environmental and social challenges, it has become essential for companies to play
an active role in achieving sustainable development—not only by generating profits but also by
fulfilling their responsibilities toward society and the environment. With the rise of public and
media awareness, corporate social responsibility is no longer an option but a necessity for long-
term institutional success and continuity.

In recent years, experts and advocates in the corporate sector and civil society organizations have
increasingly called for greater private sector involvement in sustainable development efforts. This
push arises from the challenges faced by governments, which have long shouldered these
responsibilities without achieving the desired progress. These calls reflect a growing recognition

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that effective development requires broader collaboration between the public and private sectors,
as well as civil society institutions, to create a lasting and positive impact.

Second: Social Responsibility Definitions

The Concept of Social Responsibility

The concept of social responsibility refers to the ethical obligation of organizations to ensure that
their decisions contribute to the well-being of society as a whole, as well as the development and
sustainability of the environment. Although this concept has evolved over time, its core values
remain unchanged, emphasizing a balance between profit-making and positive contributions to
society.

According to the (BNET Business Dictionary), social responsibility is defined as a voluntary

approach adopted by companies to meet stakeholder expectations by integrating social, ethical,
and environmental concerns into their daily objectives, such as revenue generation, profit-making,
and legal compliance. This concept also entails a continuous corporate commitment to ethical
conduct and economic development while improving the quality of life for employees, their
families, the local community, and society at large.

Social Responsibility Definitions

The World Business Council for Sustainable Development defines social responsibility
as:"Managing a company in a way that meets or exceeds societal expectations regarding ethical,
legal, and business conduct."

On the other hand, some experts define social responsibility as achieving a balance between the
different interests of stakeholders, including:

1. Partners or shareholders.
2. The local community surrounding the company's operations.
3. Consumers who benefit from the company's services or products.
4. Employees working within the company.
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Other definitions suggest that social responsibility consists of a set of decisions and actions taken
by an organization to achieve objectives that align with the prevailing values of society.
Ultimately, these objectives become an integral part of the organization's direct economic
relationship with its surrounding environment and are embedded within its overall strategy.

Social Responsibility: A Commitment to Achieving Sustainability

Corporate Social Responsibility is a voluntary choice made by organizations to improve their

impact on society and the environment. This responsibility is no longer limited to charitable
actions; it has become an essential part of the company’s strategy. This approach requires
integrating social and environmental issues into all company operations, which strengthens its
relationship with stakeholders, such as employees and customers.

The goal of this approach is to achieve a balance between generating profits and fulfilling the
company's responsibilities towards society and the environment. This commitment supports long-
term sustainability and enhances the company's reputation and competitiveness, ensuring a
continuous positive impact on society and the economy. Therefore, social responsibility is
considered a fundamental pillar in achieving the balance between making profits and fulfilling its
responsibilities towards society and the environment, which enhances business sustainability and
creates a long-term positive impact.

Types of Social Responsibility

Social responsibility can be divided into three main types from a philosophical perspective: civil
responsibility, criminal responsibility, and ethical responsibility. Each type has its own
characteristics and criteria that distinguish it from the others. Below is a more detailed explanation
of these types:

1. Civil Responsibility: Refers to the legal obligation imposed on an individual if they cause
material or moral harm to others, either through negligence, carelessness, recklessness, or
committing an unlawful act. Examples include:

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-If a person drives a car negligently and injures a pedestrian, they bear civil responsibility to
compensate the affected individual.

-The responsibility of parents for the actions of their minor children, and the responsibility of a
teacher for their actions and the actions of their students during school hours.

The objective of civil responsibility is to compensate the damage caused to the affected party and
restore balance, rather than imposing direct punishment for the act.

2. Criminal Responsibility: This refers to the obligation of a person to be held legally

accountable if they commit an act that falls within the crimes or violations defined by law,
such as theft or assault. Examples include:

-A person who commits the crime of theft while fully aware of their actions will be criminally
accountable.

-In contrast, if a person commits a harmful act while suffering from a severe mental disorder, they
may be exempt from full criminal responsibility.

3. Moral Responsibility: This arises from an individual's commitment to follow ethical

values and behavioral standards recognized by society. This type of responsibility depends
on free will, as an individual is held morally accountable if they freely choose to act in a
manner that violates ethics.

The importance of free will: An individual cannot be considered morally responsible if they were
forced into a particular action or lacked the ability to make decisions freely. Any act done under
duress or without awareness is not subject to moral accountability.

Degrees of Moral Responsibility:

Highest degree: When an individual's actions are driven by full awareness and free will, they bear
full responsibility for their choices.

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Lowest degree: When an individual acts under the influence of desires or anger, reducing their
level of moral responsibility, though not completely eliminating it.

These divisions reflect multiple dimensions of responsibility, as each type plays a distinct role in
regulating individual relationships and ensuring justice within society. Civil responsibility focuses
on compensation, criminal responsibility emphasizes punishment and legal accountability, while
moral responsibility pertains to an individual's inner conscience and adherence to values. This
diversity ensures a balance between individual rights and the demands of justice in legal, social,
and ethical contexts. Thus, the difference between the three types of responsibility lies in:

-Civil Responsibility: Focuses on compensating for the harm done to others, regardless of the
presence of intent or purpose in the action.

-Criminal Responsibility: Relies on the existence of criminal intent or full awareness of the act
being committed, leading to legal penalties.

-Moral Responsibility: Focuses on the individual's intention and free will from the perspective of
ethical values, even in the absence of material or legal harm.

Objectives, Motivations, and Areas of Social Responsibility Programs

The objectives and motivations of social responsibility programs vary between the interests of
companies and the society in which these companies operate. These objectives and motivations
can be classified into two main groups: the first relates to companies, and the second concerns
society. Below is a scientific detailed explanation of these objectives:

 From the Perspective of Companies: Companies aim to achieve a balance between profitability
and sustainability through social responsibility programs. Their motivations include the
following points:

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1-Gaining Public Trust and Consumer Satisfaction: Building positive relationships with
the public enhances brand loyalty, supporting the achievement of economic goals for
companies. An example of this is the Arab Bank, which won the award for the best social
responsibility program in the Middle East. This approach is reflected through organizing
awareness sessions and initiatives that serve the community, thereby strengthening
customer loyalty and trust in the company.

2- Improving Employee Well-being and Psychological Stability: Providing social and

health care for employees and ensuring a stable working environment enhances their
productivity and develops their technical skills, which improves the overall performance
of the company. For example, Orange Jordan supports its employees through training and
empowerment programs, which improves employee performance and job satisfaction.

3-Achieving Long-Term Revenue Sustainability: Social responsibility strategies

contribute to creating sustainable value for companies, ensuring the continued generation
of profits over long periods. An example of this is INVEST BANK in Jordan, which invests
in renewable energy projects to cover its operational needs, thus enhancing the
sustainability of its economic activity.

4-Enhancing the Company’s Competitive Reputation: A good reputation has become a

key competitive advantage. Studies show that 86% of consumers prefer to engage with
companies that demonstrate a tangible commitment to society. For instance, Jordan Bank
strengthens its partnerships with charitable organizations to achieve a tangible social
impact, giving it a competitive edge in the banking market.

5- Improving Public Image and Increasing Sales: Social commitment enhances the
image of products and services in the minds of consumers, contributing to increased
demand and expanding the customer base. An example of this is the Arab Bank, which
helps improve its public image and raise societal awareness through its ongoing support
for poverty alleviation initiatives, such as its collaboration with "Tkiyet Um Ali."

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 From the Community's Perspective:

Social responsibility programs contribute to achieving multiple benefits for society by

promoting sustainable development and social solidarity:

1-Enhancing Social Cohesion: Solidarity among different segments of society is

strengthened through the provision of a supportive environment, which contributes to
building a more inclusive and cohesive community.

2-Raising Social Welfare Levels: Community initiatives contribute to improving living

standards by providing economic opportunities and services that enhance individual well-
being. Example: Tkiyet Um Ali in Jordan provides continuous food meals to support needy
families, contributing to improved living standards.

3-Achieving Sustainable Development with Community Participation: Involving the

community in sustainable development projects encourages efforts toward achieving long-
term environmental and social goals.

4-Empowering Individuals and Developing Their Skills: Social responsibility programs

help develop individuals' skills and capabilities, increasing their opportunities for active
participation in the local economy. Example: Orange Jordan contributes to empowering
youth by bridging the digital divide, providing them with new opportunities in the job
market.

5-Enhancing Partnership with the State to Achieve Development: The private sector
supports government efforts to achieve developmental goals, contributing to integrated
economic and social progress.

6-Seeking Complementary and Environmentally Friendly Solutions: Companies'

commitment to sustainable environmental practices encourages the development of
integrated solutions that meet both the economic and environmental needs of society.

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Secondly: Institutions and the Application of Social Responsibility

Non-Governmental Organizations

The term "Non-Governmental Organization" first appeared with the establishment of the United
Nations in 1945, where certain provisions included an advisory role for these organizations, which
operate independently from the member states. The global non-governmental organization is
defined as "a global entity not established by an international agreement." Resolution No. 288,
issued by the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) on February 27, 1950, emphasized the
importance of non-governmental organizations, especially regarding their role in achieving
sustainable development, which was further reinforced in Chapter 13 of Agenda 21. This
development led to a modification in the nature of the advisory relationship between the United
Nations and these organizations.

One of the most prominent examples of international non-governmental organizations is the Red
Cross and Red Crescent Societies, which are considered the largest humanitarian organization in
the world. Throughout history, many voluntary associations have emerged and later became part
of the list of non-governmental organizations recognized by the United Nations. One of the oldest
of these is the International Red Cross Council, which was founded in 1863.

The United Nations has played a central role in promoting the recognition of the importance of
these organizations, as their influence is no longer limited to local issues but has extended to
regional and international matters. However, some non-governmental organizations face criticism
for serving the interests of certain capitalist institutions. Over time, these organizations have
worked on developing laws and regulations that govern their work, focusing on humanitarian and
sustainable development fields.

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Stages of Development of Non-Governmental Organizations:

First Stage: Voluntary and Relief Work: In this stage, non-governmental organizations focused
on providing direct services to beneficiaries, such as distributing food and providing healthcare,
responding immediately to urgent needs.

Second Stage: Local Development: Non-governmental organizations began to focus on

community development on a smaller scale, relying on self-efforts to develop local communities
without government intervention, seeking to provide the resources these communities needed
independently.

Third Stage: Sustainable Development and Policy Influence: Non-governmental organizations

transitioned from their direct executive role to that of a helper and guide. They began striving to
bring about changes in policies and institutions at local, national, and international levels,
reflecting their shift from providing relief to working on sustainable development projects.

Purposes of Non-Governmental Organizations: Non-governmental organizations are

established to achieve a variety of objectives, which are often humanitarian and social in nature,
aiming to serve their members and the community at large. These purposes include the following:

-Improving the Natural Environment: Striving to preserve the environment, combat pollution, and
promote the sustainability of natural resources.

-Promoting Human Rights: Raising awareness of human rights and working to protect and defend
them.

-Improving the Conditions of Marginalized Groups: Providing support and care for the most
vulnerable groups, such as the poor, refugees, and minorities.

-Managing Social Enterprises or Companies: Establishing companies or institutions that aim to

achieve social or developmental goals rather than profit.

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Many of these organizations also evolve their objectives over time to align with political and
intellectual shifts. Some of these goals may overlap with other areas, such as supporting
educational or sports activities, reflecting the flexibility of these organizations in adapting to the
changing needs and directions of society.

Types of Voluntary Work. Since ancient times, small communities around the world have relied
on voluntary work as a means to enhance social cohesion. These activities initially focused on
charitable acts such as providing food and money or offering support during crises through first
aid or water provision. As communities developed, the need arose to organize these activities
institutionally to achieve effectiveness and sustainability.

In some small villages and remote areas lacking government services, voluntary initiatives became
part of community traditions, such as cleaning the streets or providing informal security. For
example, in the United States, volunteers participated in activities such as organizing
neighborhood patrols to ensure the safety of the areas.

Over time, voluntary work has evolved from being an unorganized activity to becoming part of
specialized volunteer organizations. Some of these organizations aim to train and qualify
volunteers, thereby enhancing their role in society. Certain activities, such as volunteer firefighting
services, continue to exist in many American cities. The importance of these activities is
particularly evident during disasters, such as floods and health crises, where they contribute
effectively to supporting the community.

The Impact of Voluntary Work on Volunteers

Voluntary work has a significant positive impact on individuals who participate in it, as it
enhances:

1. Happiness and life satisfaction.

2. Self-confidence and a sense of control over life decisions.
3. Physical and mental health, leading to psychological well-being.

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According to a study involving 1,881 people, individuals who enjoy good health and possess
distinctive personal traits are more likely to engage in voluntary work, which strengthens their
sense of ability to meet both personal and societal needs.

Regarding the impact of voluntary work on the elderly, multiple studies have shown that it has a
remarkable positive effect on their health. Participation in these activities reduces feelings of
isolation and provides them with psychological comfort. Additionally, the hours they spend in
voluntary work help alleviate illnesses and contribute to improving their mental and physical
health. While the benefits extend to all age groups, older adults particularly benefit from these
activities, as they help them maintain an active lifestyle. Their involvement in such activities also
fosters social integration, regardless of the type or frequency of voluntary work with the
organizations that they cooperate with. These studies indicate that social factors, such as
population density and social integration, play a significant role in shaping the impact of these
activities.

Voluntary Work as a Source of Community Cooperation

Many people view volunteering as a non-material contribution offered without the expectation of
financial compensation. However, voluntary work has significant indirect benefits for both the
volunteer and the community. It helps foster personal tranquility and break down social barriers,
leading to increased community cooperation. For volunteers, it contributes to improving their
psychological well-being by providing a sense of self-fulfillment and active social engagement.

The Impact of Voluntary Work on Social Capital and Mental Health

There is no doubt that voluntary work plays a crucial role in strengthening social capital by
fostering mutual trust among individuals and supporting democratic policies. Volunteers often take
on active roles in religious and political spheres, enhancing their participation in public life.
However, it is difficult to assume that volunteering alone can serve as a force of opposition to the
existing political system.

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Voluntary work also helps maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle by promoting both mental and
physical well-being. It increases volunteers' sense of well-being and self-satisfaction. Additionally,
these activities provide opportunities to develop skills and build self-confidence, which may open
doors to better job opportunities or improve performance in current roles, ultimately contributing
to professional growth.

Challenges and Risks Associated with Volunteering

Despite the many benefits of volunteering, volunteers may face psychological stress and risks,
especially those involved in disaster relief efforts, where they encounter difficult situations such
as assisting victims and coping with trauma. Additionally, volunteers may be exposed to other
dangers, such as theft or working in unfamiliar environments.

A study has also shown that volunteers in civil society organizations, whether at the local or
national level, may experience negative effects on their mental and physical health. Some experts
attribute these negative impacts to poor management within civil society groups, highlighting the
importance of effective administration to support volunteers and minimize potential risks.

In light of modern studies, civil society is understood as an interconnected element with political,
economic, and social systems rather than as an independent or separate entity. Its role goes beyond
traditional functions, as it is considered a key partner in achieving democracy, sustainable
development, and promoting active citizenship.

This integrative role requires effective participation between the state, civil society, and the private
sector to ensure the achievement of comprehensive development goals. Democracy relies on the
continued presence of a strong civil society that empowers citizens to participate in decision-
making and oversee government performance, thereby enhancing transparency and strengthening
trust between institutions and society.

Achieving sustainable development depends on involving civil society in policy formulation and
collaborating with governmental entities to ensure an effective response to economic and social
challenges. Through this collaboration, civil society's institutional capacities are strengthened,

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enabling it to become an active player in development. Additionally, the concept of active

citizenship serves as a cornerstone for building a resilient and sustainable society, as it fosters
individuals' sense of belonging and encourages their active participation in public affairs.

In the same context, adopting the concept of modernity helps civil society keep pace with global
transformations, ensuring the sustainability of its role and its positive impact in the long term.

Social Responsibility in Civil Society Organizations and Their Unions

Before discussing civil society organizations, it is essential to address two interconnected concepts:
the concept of society and the concept of civil society, which serves as a framework encompassing
a set of political and humanitarian values and principles that fundamentally differ from traditional
concepts associated with it. From this concept emerges the role of civil society organizations, also
known as non-governmental organizations, which bear increasingly significant social
responsibilities.

The concept of civil society cannot be regarded as a self-sufficient entity, as it is inseparable from
the context in which it arises and from other concepts that may intersect with or frame it within a
broader or narrower scope. Among the most prominent of these concepts is democracy, which
aims to achieve justice by ensuring rights and obligations within an integrated society. Democracy
is not merely a system of principles but rather a practical framework that necessitates a close
connection between an active civil society and the state. Additionally, the success of civil society
depends on voluntary initiatives that promote international harmony, support sustainable peace,
and contribute to the common good, alongside many other concepts that help shape a flexible and
effective societal system.

The pillars of social responsibility for civil society organizations are based on two
fundamental foundations: The first is intellectual and ethical, emphasizing the importance of
integrating the goals of organizations—whether governmental, non-governmental, or private—
with the optimal use of their resources to coordinate efforts with others. No organization can truly
succeed if it seeks only financial profit without contributing to the development and progress of
society. The second foundation is practical, focusing on transforming this intellectual vision into

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social initiatives implemented outside the framework of the official state system to support
community development. These initiatives include launching projects driven by civil society
organizations, aiming to enhance the capabilities of professional groups and assist beneficiaries in
achieving tangible improvements in their lives.

The ethical foundation of social responsibility lies in the duty individuals have toward the
development of their society, including its culture, values, and institutions. The significance of this
responsibility is evident in the benefits it brings to society as a whole. Failure to uphold it results
in a form of social accountability, which varies in its methods and severity depending on the
society’s culture and customs, and in some cases, can lead to more serious social penalties.
Accordingly, ethical responsibility can be defined as "an action that an individual feels internally
compelled to perform without seeking any personal gain in return."

The foundations of civil society organizations

The foundations of civil society organizations' work are understood to be based on multiple
dimensions, including ethical and intellectual aspects, in addition to legislative frameworks. These
foundations form the basis of the philosophy of social responsibility that guides the activities of
these organizations, distinguishing them with their uniqueness and independent entity. These
foundations include the following:

1. Laws and Legislation: These are a set of clear legal regulations that govern the behavior
of individuals and organizations, specifying the ethical values that must be adhered to when
implementing these laws.
2. Spiritual and Social Principles: These include religious values and beliefs that encourage
virtue and cooperation, strengthening the bonds among members of society.
3. Personal Beliefs: These represent individual convictions that influence a person’s behavior
and direct them toward actions they deem appropriate based on their own values.

Based on these foundations, the voluntary cooperation of civil society with civil institutions
and the activation of social commitment reflect the spirit of initiative and responsibility. This

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commitment contributes to achieving positive social interaction based on social responsibility,

which enhances sustainable development and supports the well-being of society as a whole.

Social interaction is manifested in actions that go beyond legal obligations to fall within the
framework of social responsibility, such as the activities of unions, federations, and consumer
efforts. Social development is closely linked to culture, which reflects "the way individuals
collaborate with one another." Social cohesion arises from this interaction within institutions
and expresses mutual commitment among individuals.

Achieving social development requires the advancement of cultural aspects and individual
initiatives that promote active participation. This depends on instilling positive behaviors that
contribute to sustaining interaction and cooperation, making them a part of daily life.
Additionally, the human element and the formation of social capital are pivotal in the process
of interaction. Just as money derives its value from production, it plays a fundamental role in
supporting economic growth. In this context, civil society represents one of the key factors that
contribute to achieving the development goals pursued by society in an integrated manner.

Fifth: Civil Society

The concept of modern civil society emerged from the European experience in the mid-17th
century and continues to influence the understanding of this concept to this day. This European
idea focused on the nature of the relationship between the ruling authority (the state) and the
individuals subject to governance (the society). During that period, the emergence of the
concept of civil society was closely linked to the concept of democracy, where thinkers began
to formulate a new perspective, asserting that political power is not a separate entity but rather
a product of society itself. According to this view, the role of authority is not to monopolize
politics but to organize individuals' lives according to their needs, with the emphasis that real
power should remain in the hands of the people and not be monopolized by rulers. Despite the
expansion of the concept of civil society and its increasing importance, there remains
significant disagreement among scholars regarding its dimensions, conditions, and
characteristics. This variation in interpretations arises because the concept is rooted in

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European contexts across multiple historical stages, making it difficult to establish a unified
definition. Nevertheless, a general understanding of civil society can be presented as a free
public political space, where its essence revolves around political organization based on
voluntary agreements among its members. This definition highlights that what is most
important in civil society is ensuring the existence of an organizational framework built on the
free participation and independent choice of its members, thus reinforcing the concept of true
democracy.

The concept of civil society is used as a means to redefine the balance between the power of
the state on one hand and private bodies and associations on the other. In totalitarian regimes,
civil society is entirely eliminated, as these systems view independent gatherings such as trade
unions, lobbying groups, and non-governmental organizations as a threat to the ruling
authority. This leads to the state's dominance over all aspects of public life, with the elimination
of any independent role for institutions that represent society, thereby stripping these regimes
of any ethical or religious dimensions outside their control. In the Arab world, numerous
definitions of civil society have emerged. Despite the differences in formulations, most agree
on the existence of a reciprocal relationship between the state and civil society, where they are
not seen as being in conflict or contradiction. However, these definitions attempt to draw a
clear line between the official role of the state and the role of civil society organizations,
emphasizing that these organizations should be distinct from the state's control. Organizations
must be independent of hereditary structures or inherited traditional ties in order to reflect a
modern and open concept of community participation.

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Civil Society Organizations

Civil Society is defined as a broad network of non-governmental and non-profit organizations

that operate in the public sphere with the aim of representing the interests and values of their
members or society at large. This definition is based on a set of ethical, cultural, political,
scientific, religious, or charitable foundations. The categories included within the scope of civil
society include: non-governmental organizations, labor unions, indigenous groups, charitable
organizations, religious institutions, professional unions, and volunteer work institutions. The
term civil society refers to a wide range of non-profit organizations and bodies that do not seek
profit. These organizations cover various areas of public life, and it is sometimes difficult to
distinguish between their interests and values, especially given their overlap with ethical,
cultural, political, scientific, religious, or charitable concerns. According to this usage, the
concept of civil society encompasses a diverse array of entities, including:

- Local Community Associations

- Non-Governmental Organizations

- Labor Unions

- Indigenous Groups

- Charitable Organizations

- Religious Institutions

- Professional Unions

This broad definition reflects the diversity of entities that fall under the umbrella of civil society,
making the term encompass a wide range of actors who contribute to community development in
various ways.

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The Relationship Between Civil Society Organizations and the State

The relationship between the state and civil society organizations is a central topic of discussion
and debate among intellectual currents. Just as the relationship between politics and the state
evolved in Western societies after the Middle Ages, some perspectives argued that adjusting the
relationship between civil society and its organizations reflects their responsibilities. However, the
civil concept has not always been dominant, as various intellectual trends have emerged over time.

As for enhancing political partnership, it means reviving the concept of citizenship in a way that
supports political reform, develops the economy, and achieves development. Reform has always
been a part of the process of change, where the political dimension goes beyond to shaping the
individual’s character in a way that makes them an active partner in building the state.

Third: The Role of Social Responsibility in Achieving Sustainable Development

Social Responsibility in Comprehensive Development

Corporate social responsibility in the Arab world has recently evolved from merely offering
charitable acts to adopting a more comprehensive approach aimed at sustainable development.
While many Arab companies initially viewed their activities towards society as an extension of
the charitable and philanthropic traditions characteristic of Middle Eastern communities,
globalization and technological advancement have highlighted best practices in this field,
prompting these companies to take more impactful roles in their communities.

Transformation of the Concept to Sustainable Development:

Corporate Social Responsibility has become an integral part of modern business strategies, where
companies seek to integrate social and environmental goals into their daily activities. For example,
Jordan Bank and Arab Bank focus on launching initiatives that promote social solidarity and
economic development through partnerships with civil society organizations. These companies no
longer limit themselves to offering donations or direct support; instead, they have adopted long-
term strategies aimed at improving the economic and social conditions.

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Social Responsibility as Part of Governance:

Social responsibility has become an integral part of corporate governance, aimed at ensuring
performance transparency and linking results to specific indicators such as environmental and
social impact. An example of this is the annual performance reports of major companies in Jordan
and the region, which now include details about their social and environmental initiatives,
reflecting their commitment to international standards for assessing social and environmental
impact.

This shift can be seen in the transformation of the role from charity to integration with business
strategies, where profit is no longer the sole goal, but achieving a balance between profitability
and community commitment has become important. Studies indicate that consumers in the region
now prefer to engage with companies that play a positive role in society. It can be said that
corporate social responsibility in the Arab world has evolved from traditional charitable acts to a
key element in business strategies focusing on sustainable development. Companies now realize
that their success depends not only on financial performance but also on their active contribution
to improving the social, economic, and environmental conditions of the communities in which they
operate.

The shift from traditional charity to sustainable institutional work

Traditional activities of social responsibility based on charity, philanthropy, and seasonal
contributions are no longer sufficient to meet the needs of modern development. There has been a
growing trend towards moving to a new phase of sustainable work characterized by efficiency,
integration, and systematic planning. This shift is essential for achieving greater sustainability and
deeper impact, and it can be summarized in the concept of "institutionalization," which
encompasses several key aspects:

1- Organization and Prior Planning: Moving from random donations to disciplined

strategic plans that align with sustainable development goals.

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2- Sustainability and Effectiveness: Focusing on long-term initiatives that ensure the

continuity of benefits, instead of temporary activities with limited impact.

3- Integration: Institutions seek to create partnerships with governments, the private sector,
and civil society organizations to enhance cooperation and collective efforts in achieving
common goals.

4- Accountability and Transparency: Institutional work in social responsibility requires the

establishment of mechanisms for accountability and performance evaluation to ensure the
achievement of declared objectives.

5- Transforming Social Responsibility into Social Investment: These initiatives go beyond

mere financial donations to include activities that contribute to community development,
such as funding education, supporting small businesses, and protecting the environment.

Government Social Responsibility and Its Role in Sustainable Development

Governments play a vital role in promoting social responsibility by adopting policies and
legislation that encourage partnerships between the public and private sectors to achieve
sustainable development. In Jordan, the government is committed to an economic modernization
vision aimed at enhancing integration across sectors, including renewable energy, transportation,
and the green economy. These efforts create a regulatory environment that encourages the private
sector to effectively implement its social responsibility programs.
The Ministry of Social Development in Jordan also works on developing partnerships with civil
society organizations to support marginalized groups and achieve social solidarity. These efforts
rely on the integration of governmental goals with community initiatives to ensure the
sustainability of projects and effectively meet the needs of society.

The Importance of Private Sector Participation in Development

Private sector participation has become a crucial element in achieving sustainable development for
several reasons:

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 Provision of Financial and Technical Resources: The private sector has the capacity to
provide significant financial and technical support that exceeds what governments can
provide alone.
 Innovation: Companies can introduce innovative solutions to address social and
environmental challenges.
 Job Creation and Skill Development: Private institutions can contribute to creating job
opportunities and developing the skills of the workforce.
 Achieving Balanced Economic Development: By distributing economic activity and
investing in less developed areas.

It has become essential to transition from traditional charitable activities to a more organized and
sustainable institutional approach that aligns with sustainable development goals and fosters
integration across sectors. This shift toward "institutionalizing" social responsibility makes it an
integral part of company strategy, ensuring a sustainable and tangible impact on society, while
simultaneously enhancing the company's image and long-term economic performance.

Social Responsibility in Civil Society Organizations

Civil society organizations play a complementary role to the government and private sector by
implementing development programs aimed at empowering individuals and improving their
quality of life. These initiatives are closely linked to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),
which include eradicating poverty, improving the quality of education, and promoting equality.
For instance, organizations like "Tkiyet Um Ali" in Jordan provide food assistance to those in need
as part of their social responsibility framework.
These organizations also contribute to increasing community awareness of the importance of
sustainable development and enhancing the concepts of transparency and accountability within
development programs. According to studies conducted in the Arab world, collaboration between
civil society organizations, private companies, and governments enhances the effectiveness of
development efforts, ensuring a sustainable impact over the long term.

Integration of Roles Between Government and Civil Society to Achieve Sustainable

Development

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The integration between the government and civil society organizations is essential for effectively
achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Jordanian government supports this
integration by providing a supportive legislative and regulatory environment, while civil society
organizations contribute to implementing programs on the ground. This collaboration enhances
the achievement of comprehensive development goals, such as providing employment
opportunities, improving the quality of education, and protecting the environment.

Social responsibility plays a significant role in achieving sustainable development through

effective partnerships between the government, private sector, and civil society organizations.
These partnerships contribute to improving social, economic, and environmental conditions,
ensuring that the Sustainable Development Goals are achieved in a comprehensive and effective
manner.

In the past, non-governmental organizations primarily focused on charitable work aimed at

enhancing social solidarity and providing social opportunities for certain underprivileged groups.
However, these organizations have evolved in the modern era to move beyond their charitable
nature, seeking to influence state policies in various fields. This shift is characterized by non-
governmental work aiming to make an impact on public policy and planning, without replacing
traditional political work, dealing with fine details without offering comprehensive alternatives to
existing policies or seeking to change the system of governance.

In recent decades, there has been an increased focus on civil society organizations in the context
of their developmental role, alongside the shift in international institutions such as the World Bank
and the International Monetary Fund towards policies of privatization, economic restructuring, and
reducing state intervention in the economy. This trend aims to support the growth of the private
sector and minimize the state's role in providing social services. As a result, non-governmental
organizations have come to be seen as a means of enhancing local development, adopting functions
that were previously associated with the "welfare state," especially in relation to providing
essential services to citizens.

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The idea that the formation of civil society organizations is part of human rights has emerged, as
this right reflects individuals' freedom to create associations and institutions aimed at improving
living standards and implementing programs and laws that enhance the rights of various social
groups and defend their interests. From this, the concept of collaboration between the government,
private sector, and civil society organizations for sustainable development has evolved, known as
the participation of the "three sectors." This collaboration seeks to achieve comprehensive and
lasting development by integrating efforts across these key societal sectors.

These trends resonate with international attention, especially in the Western world, towards
financing non-governmental organizations in "Third World countries," including Arab nations.
This funding is justified on the assumption that these organizations are less prone to corruption,
more independent from governments, and capable of exerting pressure on institutions to achieve
the desired goals. Additionally, this external funding is often linked to strict accountability
mechanisms to ensure that the desired outcomes are effectively achieved.

During the "Development Assistance Committee" meeting held in 1997 in Amman, a committee
under the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, a set of outcomes was
reached related to development effectiveness, community participation, and good governance. One
of the key conclusions was the emphasis that achieving integration between development,
participation, and good governance could only be realized if both civil society and the private
sector were able to play an active role in demanding the necessary reforms in political and
economic systems.

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‫‪References in English:‬‬

‫‪‬‬ ‫‪Holdsworth C. and Brewis G. (2014). "Volunteering, Choice and Control: A Case Study‬‬

‫‪of Higher Education Student Volunteering." Journal of Youth Studies. 17(2), 204-219.‬‬

‫‪‬‬ ‫'‪Hyde M. K. and Knowles S.R. (2013). "What Predicts Australian University Students‬‬

‫‪Intentions to Volunteer Their Time for Community Service." Australian Journal of‬‬

‫‪Psychology. 65, 135-145.‬‬

‫‪‬‬ ‫‪MacNeela P. and Gannon N. (2014). "Process and Positive Development: An Interpretative‬‬

‫‪Phenomenological Analysis of University Student Volunteering." Journal of Adolescence‬‬

‫‪Research. 29(3), 407-436.‬‬

‫‪References in Arabic:‬‬

‫•إسماعيل الزيود وسناء الكبيسي (‪ .)2013‬اتجاهات طلبة جامعة البترا نحو العمل التطوعي في األردن‪.‬‬

‫•مشاعل بنت فهد المقبل وآمنة بنت أحمد الزير (‪ .)2015‬العمل التطوعي وقيم المواطنة لدى الشباب السعودي‪( .‬دراسة ميدانية‬
‫مطبقة على عينة من المتطوعين في المملكة العربية السعودية)‪ .‬جامعة الملك سعود‪.‬‬

‫•فاتن محمد عبد المنعم عزازي (‪ .)2014‬تدعيم العمل التطوعي داخل الجامعات السعودية‪ :‬مدخل استراتيجي‪ .‬المجلة الدولية‬
‫التربوية المتخصصة‪.182-166 .)4( 3 .‬‬

‫•فاطمة الزبيدي‪ .)2006( .‬اتجاهات طلبة الجامعة األردنية نحو العمل التطوعي‪ :‬دراسة ميدانية‪( .‬رسالة ماجستي)‪.‬‬

‫•رشا سالم البريم‪ .)2015( .‬محددات العمل التطوعي لدى طلبة الجامعات األردنية‪( .‬رسالة ماجستير(‪.‬‬

‫•جرادات‪ ،‬ناصر سعود؛ أبو الحمام‪ ،‬عزام (‪" .)2013‬المسؤولية األخالقية واالجتماعية للمنظمات"‪ .‬عمان‪ ،‬األردن‪ :‬دار إثراء‬
‫للنشر والتوزيع‪ ،‬ومكتبة الجامعة (الشارقة)‪.‬‬

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