Khaberni - Exclusive
The extensive field movements of the new American ambassador in Amman, James Holtsneider, have raised questions among a segment of Jordanians, especially with his participation in popular events and his visits to a number of tribes and social occasions in various regions of the kingdom, which prompted questions about the nature of these activities and their limits within the diplomatic framework in force in Jordan.
The opinions of observers varied between those who see these movements as part of the public diplomacy that some countries adopt to enhance communication with local communities, and those who expressed questions relating to the compatibility of these activities with diplomatic norms, especially in the context of the sensitive political and regional scene.
Legally, the Jordanian constitution does not directly specify the powers of ambassadors, but it forms the general sovereign framework within which all activities are conducted in the kingdom, emphasizing principles of the rule of law, respect for public order, and the protection of national security.
The powers and privileges of foreign ambassadors in Jordan are regulated according to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, which Jordan has ratified, and which guarantees diplomats a number of rights, notably the freedom of movement and passage (Article 26), the inviolability of diplomatic mission premises, the confidentiality of correspondence, and immunity from legal prosecution.
The Vienna Convention grants ambassadors freedom of movement within the host state's territory, but this freedom is not absolute; it is restricted by the need to respect the laws and regulations of the state, especially concerning prohibited areas and national security, and obliges diplomats not to interfere in the internal affairs of the state where they are accredited.
The Jordanian diplomatic corps system, based on international principles, provides a detailed regulatory framework for privileges and duties, and emphasizes that diplomatic immunities do not imply breaching local laws or customs.
Experts believe that ambassadors' participation in social events and community visits generally falls under what is known as "public diplomacy," aimed at building communication bridges with the community; however, the success of this approach remains linked to the sensitivity of the local context and respect for the political and social privacy of the host state.
Conversely, observers emphasize that any diplomatic activity, whatever its form, must remain within the limits of the representative role, and should not be interpreted as an attempt to influence or bypass the official channels in place.
While international law ensures a space for movement and activity for ambassadors within host countries, the Jordanian constitution and state sovereignty remain the ultimate reference, affirming that the relationship between Jordan and diplomatic missions is based on the principle of mutual respect, strict compliance with the laws, and non-interference in internal affairs.
The questions from the Jordanian street are a natural reflection of a public awareness that monitors and evaluates within a framework of a state of law and institutions.
