As a small, middle income country with significant levels of unemployment (13 per cent), Jordan is confronted with an increasing inflow of Syrian refugees. As of 2 October 2012, 103,488 refugees have been registered with UNHCR or awaiting registration, an increase from 35,000 in June. Jordan has maintained its borders open for Syrians. The majority of the refugees are living in urban locations, either with host families or in private accommodation. The presence of thousands of Syrian refugees throughout Jordan has put a strain on public services such as water, health and education. According to a joint rapid nutrition assessment led by UNICEF in the Za’atari Refugee Camp, 2.3 percent of children under-5 were acutely malnourished and an additional 6.9 percent are at risk of acute malnutrition based on MUAC measurements. To take advantage of fully functional local food markets WFP has implemented a value-based food voucher assistance programme. In addition, welcoming food packages and hot meals are provided to refugees residing in transit centres and camps.
October 2012