A Look into the Numbers from the 200-Day Poll: Jordanian Media Regains Public Trust - Jordan News

Jordan News

07-05-2025

The Center for Strategic Studies at the University of Jordan is distinguished by its well-established traditions, developed over many years, in conducting general and specialized public opinion surveys regarding the views and attitudes of the Jordanian public and elites on the formation of governments and other domestic issues, including economic and political matters. اضافة اعلان No one can question the 'institutional integrity' of the center, which stands on a solid scientific foundation and deep-rooted expertise in conducting surveys. Likewise, the credibility of its leadership is beyond reproach, as most of them hold academic degrees in political science, statistics, and the humanities and social sciences. They are well-versed in scientific research and public opinion measurement fundamentals. There is no doubt that the center's surveys serve as important and vital "indicators" for decision-makers, each within their relevant domains—be it public affairs, economics, society, or media. The official release of the results at fixed intervals in front of the media reflects a methodological, institutional, and scientific commitment by the center's team and confirms their transparency and credibility in engaging with public opinion. Some may disagree—justifiably so—either in part or in full, with the center's findings. However, it's undeniable that these surveys carry significant value, topics, and timing, especially in the absence of any alternative or independent entities undertaking this rigorous and appreciated work. As a researcher specialized in media and local affairs, what concerns me most is the aspect of "trust in the media" revealed in the center's survey results after 200 days of Dr. Jaafar Hassan's government. These findings deserve close reading and analysis, particularly those related to public sentiment toward media performance. The first of these indicators is that a 'high level of trust' in Jordanian media was recorded, with 67% of respondents expressing confidence. The second is an 'unprecedented rise' in trust within a record time—an increase of 16% between the 100-day and 200-day polls, climbing from 51% to 67%. Perhaps most noteworthy is the significant gap in trust between Jordanian media (of all types—public and private) and social media platforms. The difference approaches 20 percentage points in favor of traditional media (67%) compared to 47% for social media platforms. While 47% is not insignificant and warrants further discussion, that is beyond the scope of this analysis. Some official media institutions managed to top the trust rankings, even if those results may not please everyone. The hard truth is that scientific, survey-based studies do not offer results that cater to personal preferences or align with emotional responses. Rather, they reveal facts as captured by unbiased, systematic research methods. According to the survey, Al-Mamlaka TV (The Kingdom Channel) received the highest level of trust among Jordanian media institutions (72%), followed by Jordan TV (66%), and then other Jordanian media institutions (63%). These unprecedented levels of trust stem from several factors, including the explosive regional situation and the orchestrated campaigns of misinformation targeting the Jordanian state and its balanced political positions—particularly regarding the Palestinian cause. Social media platforms, often a breeding ground for demonization and doubt, have sometimes exerted psychological and intellectual pressure on the Jordanian public, attempting to undermine trust in national institutions and moderate political discourse. Yet rather than succeeding, these campaigns have had the opposite effect: they prompted Jordanians to cling more tightly to their national media, seeking a trustworthy, responsible, and calm narrative—one that prioritizes the nation's interest and appeals to logic over emotion. This increased trust is also due to qualitative improvements in the performance of some Jordanian media institutions. This trust is not a coincidence—it reflects clear efforts to provide professional content based on accuracy, balance, and adherence to ethical and professional standards. Both public and private media outlets in Jordan have realized the importance of staying connected to the public pulse—conveying the truth without exaggeration or downplaying, and proving, in a time of doubt and misinformation, that they remain the closest and most committed sources to serving the public's informational and intellectual security. Another key factor in building trust in Jordanian media has been the activation of its digital presence, along with that of official figures, on social media platforms. After years of allowing this space to be dominated by rumors, speculation, and misleading information, Jordanian institutions are beginning to understand the importance of being active and responsive in the digital sphere. Media outlets and officials' accounts now use digital platforms as direct communication tools with the public, enhancing their credibility and narrowing the gap between institutions and the people. This presence has evolved beyond just promotion or broadcasting news—it now includes responding, clarifying, and engaging with audiences. As a result, even in the open environment of digital interaction, Jordanian media has become a reliable reference point and a rational alternative to informational chaos. It's also impossible to discuss the rise in trust without acknowledging the relatively acceptable and reasonable level of media freedom in Jordan. While it may not reach the ideal threshold of total freedom, it has created a safe and responsible space where the media can report truthfully and express public opinion without falling into disorder or media blackmail. The rise in Jordanians' trust in their local media is not just a statistic in a survey—it reflects a collective awareness formed in response to external pressure and confusion. It reflects people's need for media that resembles them, speaks for them, and defends their national principles. Jordanian media has succeeded, at this critical historical moment, because it chose to be national, responsible, and rational—restoring a significant portion of its standing in the hearts of Jordanians. What this poll shows is a call for Jordanian media to continue this upward path—but without arrogance or complacency. Trust, as difficult as it is to build, can be shaken easily if transparency fades or the quality of content, analysis, and consistent innovation declines.