Institutionalizing the water-energy-food nexus in Jordan: A policy and governance blueprint

Abstract

Jordan faces severe, chronic water scarcity alongside heavy energy import dependence and growing pressures on its food systems, creating an urgent need for integrated national planning. This study develops a governance-centered Water–Energy–Food (WEF) Nexus framework tailored to Jordan’s institutional realities. Using a qualitative methodology, it systematically analyzes national strategies, sectoral laws, regulatory frameworks, UNFCCC reporting documents, and economic development plans, and benchmarks against established international governance models to identify gaps, interdependencies, and coordination challenges. The research introduces a five-pillar WEF Nexus governance blueprint encompassing institutional coordination, resource-efficiency measures, capacity development, innovative financing, and regional cooperation. This model serves as a practical tool for diagnosing fragmented mandates, supporting policy alignment, and guiding Nexus-informed interventions such as renewable-powered water systems, irrigation modernization, and cross-sector investment planning. Findings reveal that Jordan’s current strategies remain siloed, limiting their ability to meet sustainability and climate commitments. The study recommends establishing a WEF Nexus Coordination Authority, adopting measurable cross-sector indicators, and mobilizing green finance to support implementation. While designed for Jordan, the proposed framework offers a transferable, action-oriented model for other resource-constrained countries seeking to institutionalize Nexus principles and strengthen long-term resilience.