In 2024, Jordan’s human rights landscape is marked by a complex mix of severe violations, limited progress, and ongoing areas of concern. The country is currently under scrutiny as it undergoes its Universal Periodic Review (UPR) by the UN Human Rights Council, a process that will assess its human rights record and offer recommendations for improvement.
The Jordanian government has intensified its crackdown on civic space, targeting freedom of expression and assembly. Peaceful protesters, particularly those demonstrating against Israel’s actions in Gaza, have been harassed and detained. Human rights defenders and journalists have also faced intimidation, arrests, and administrative detention without due process. Additionally, the 2023 Cybercrime Law has been misused to suppress dissent and restrict online freedoms, with vague provisions being employed to stifle activism. Despite recommendations to amend this law to align with international standards, the government has largely ignored these calls.
Discrimination against women and LGBT individuals persists in Jordan, despite some legal reforms. Women still require male guardian permission for various rights, and LGBT individuals face harassment under vague “immorality” laws. Reports indicate that LGBT activists have been increasingly targeted, facing detentions and threats from authorities. Another critical issue is the practice of debt imprisonment, which continues despite violating international law. The lifting of the pandemic-related moratorium on debt-related imprisonment has worsened the situation, leaving many in financial distress.
Despite these ongoing violations, there have been some positive developments. A new law now allows Jordanian women married to non-Jordanians to retain their nationality, although they still cannot pass it on to their children or spouses. This represents a step forward in addressing gender discrimination in nationality laws. Jordan’s participation in the UPR process also signals a willingness to engage with international human rights mechanisms, though whether the government will fully comply with the recommendations remains uncertain.
There are several areas of ongoing concern in Jordan. The use of administrative detention continues to be a significant issue, with reports of individuals being held without charge for extended periods, undermining the rule of law and due process rights. The country also faces severe economic hardship, with high unemployment rates and rising poverty, exacerbated by economic reforms tied to international financial assistance. The lack of a robust social safety net leaves many vulnerable to economic instability. Additionally, civilians continue to be tried in military courts, raising concerns about the fairness of trials and the independence of the judiciary.
To address these issues, it is recommended that the Jordanian government end repressive practices, including the use of administrative detention, and respect the rights of protesters and human rights defenders. The Cybercrime Law should be amended to align with international human rights standards, ensuring freedom of expression online. Further reforms are needed to eliminate discriminatory practices against women and to ensure protections for LGBT individuals.
International bodies are encouraged to closely monitor Jordan’s adherence to UPR recommendations and hold the government accountable for human rights violations. Support should also be provided to local human rights organizations to strengthen their capacity to advocate for rights and monitor violations. Civil society organizations in Jordan should continue to raise awareness of human rights issues, advocate for legal reforms, particularly concerning women’s rights and LGBT protections, and systematically document human rights abuses to provide evidence for advocacy efforts and international scrutiny.
Jordan’s human rights situation in 2024 stands at a critical juncture, with significant pressure on the government to address longstanding issues while navigating complex socio-political dynamics. The upcoming UPR will play a crucial role in determining the future trajectory of human rights in the country.