The report is based on the study designed to conduct a communications assessment of Aqaba Water Company;; one of the key water utilities in Jordan and to examine how its communications department collaborates with other areas of the organization. As part of the Public Action for Water;; Energy and Environment Project (PAP);; a public education and behavior change communication program developed to support USAID’s technical and policy investments in the Jordanian water and energy sectors;; the report finds that the effective communications can save the utility money by improving operations;; increasing efficiencies and reducing customer complaints. The report suggests that the strategic communications can be the key to a sustainable future for the kingdom during the times of critical resource constraints and presents some guiding principles and recommendations for the Aqaba Water Company’s communication efforts.

This report presents a compelling argument as to why realising the full potential of Arab women is an indispensable prerequisite for development in all Arab states. It argues persuasively that the long hoped-for Arab “renaissance” cannot and will not be accomplished unless the obstacles preventing women from enjoying their human rights and contributing more fully to development are eliminated and replaced with greater access to the “tools” of development;; including education and healthcare. By placing Arab women firmly in the centre of social;; cultural;; economic and political development in the entire region;; the Report goes beyond arguing that half the population deserves half the participation. In fact;; it asserts that irrespective of the numbers;; Arab women have already accomplished great strides that are transforming the region’s political economy and social demography. While lauding these achievements and making a strong case for facilitating this strong current of positive social transformation;; the Report also analyses the remaining impediments;; and suggests concrete steps towards their elimination.