Legal Rights and Protections in Jordan

1. What are the fundamental legal rights guaranteed to individuals in Jordan?


The fundamental legal rights guaranteed to individuals in Jordan are:

1. Right to Equality: All individuals are equal before the law and have the right to equal protection and treatment without any discrimination based on race, gender, religion, or social status.

2. Right to Life and Liberty: Every individual has the right to life, personal security, and liberty. This includes protection against arbitrary arrests and detentions.

3. Right to Privacy: Individuals have the right to privacy in their personal and family life, home, correspondence, telephone calls, and other forms of communication.

4. Freedom of Expression: Individuals have the right to freedom of thought and expression through speech, writing, print media, and other forms of communication.

5. Freedom of Religion: All individuals have the freedom to practice their chosen religion or belief without any interference or coercion from the state.

6. Freedom of Assembly and Association: Citizens have the right to peaceful assembly and association with others for any lawful purpose.

7. Freedom from Torture and Inhuman Treatment: No person shall be subjected to torture or cruel punishment under any circumstances.

8. Right to Fair Trial: Every person has the right to a fair trial conducted by an independent judiciary.

9. Right to Education: Education is a fundamental human right for all individuals in Jordan without any discrimination.

10. Property Rights: The law protects every individual’s private property rights from arbitrary seizure by authorities.

11. Employment Rights: Every individual has the right to work without discrimination in terms of access opportunities or working conditions.

12. Equal Rights for Women: The Constitution guarantees gender equality in all spheres of public life including employment opportunities, education, health care services among others.

2. What are the constitutional protections for civil liberties in Jordan?


The following are the constitutional protections for civil liberties in Jordan:

1. Article 15 of the Constitution guarantees equal rights and opportunities for all citizens, without any discrimination on the basis of race, language, or religion.

2. Article 16 protects personal freedom and security, stating that no one shall be arrested, detained, searched, or investigated except in accordance with the law.

3. Article 17 guarantees the right to life and prohibits any punishment that is cruel, inhumane, or degrading.

4. Article 18 protects individuals from arbitrary arrest and detention and states that detention must be justified by legitimate legal reasons.

5. Article 19 protects the right to privacy and confidentiality of personal communications.

6. Article 21 ensures freedom of thought, opinion, and expression through various means such as speech, writing, printing, imaging or other forms of expression.

7. Article 22 guarantees freedom of peaceful assembly and demonstration as long as they are not prejudicial to public order.

8. Article 23 protects the freedom to join trade unions and professional associations.

9. Article 30 protects the right to education for all citizens.

10. Articles 31-34 protect religious freedoms by guaranteeing the free exercise of religion for all citizens and prohibiting discrimination based on religious beliefs.

11. Articles 40-49 provide protections for accused persons during criminal proceedings by ensuring a fair trial with full respect for their rights and dignity.

12. The Jordanian Constitution also recognizes international agreements related to human rights which Jordan has ratified as part of its domestic law.

Overall, these constitutional protections ensure basic civil liberties such as equality before the law, personal freedom and security, privacy, free expression and assembly, religious freedoms, fair trial rights, and protection against discrimination for all citizens in Jordan.

3. How does the judicial system provide equal protection under the law for all citizens in Jordan?


In Jordan, the judicial system provides equal protection under the law for all citizens through various measures, including:

1. Constitutional Guarantees: The Jordanian Constitution explicitly guarantees equality before the law for all citizens, regardless of race, gender, religion or social status. This means that every citizen is entitled to the same legal treatment and has equal access to justice.

2. Independent Judiciary: The Jordanian judiciary is independent from other branches of government and is responsible for enforcing laws and protecting citizens’ rights. Judges are appointed based on merit and are expected to make impartial decisions without interference from external forces.

3. Fair Trial Procedures: The judicial system in Jordan follows fair trial procedures, including the presumption of innocence until proven guilty, the right to legal representation, and the right to a public hearing. These measures ensure that all citizens have an equal opportunity to be heard and present their case in front of a judge.

4. Non-Discrimination Laws: Jordan has various laws that prohibit discrimination against individuals based on their race, religion, gender or other factors. This includes labor laws that protect employees from discriminatory hiring practices and ensure equal pay for equal work.

5. Access to Legal Aid: The Ministry of Justice in Jordan provides legal aid services for those who cannot afford legal representation. This ensures that everyone has access to proper legal advice and representation regardless of their financial situation.

6. Appeals Process: The judicial system in Jordan includes an appeals process where individuals who feel they have been treated unfairly or unjustly can appeal a court decision. This allows for review by higher courts, ensuring fairness in judgements.

7. Specialized Courts: In order to address specific issues related to discrimination or marginalized groups, Jordan has established specialized courts such as juvenile courts and family courts that deal with sensitive cases concerning children and families.

Overall, these measures aim to ensure that no citizen is discriminated against in their interactions with the legal system and promote equal protection of the law for all citizens in Jordan.

4. What laws are in place to protect against discrimination based on race, gender, or other factors in Jordan?

There are several laws in place in Jordan to protect against discrimination based on race, gender, and other factors. These include:

1. The Jordanian Constitution: Article 6 of the Jordanian Constitution guarantees all citizens “equal rights and duties before the law without distinction based on race, language or religion.”

2. Labor Law No. 8 of 1996: This law prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of gender, age, nationality, religion, or political opinion.

3. Personal Status Law No. 36 of 2010: This law protects women from discrimination in marriage, divorce, child custody, and inheritance.

4. The Nationality Law No. 6 of 1954: This law grants equal rights to men and women regarding the acquisition and retention of nationality.

5. The Juvenile Act No. (24) of 1968: This law prohibits discrimination against children based on their birth or social status.

6. Anti-Discrimination Law No. (19) of 1999: This law prohibits any form of discrimination based on race, language, religion or national origin in public places such as schools, hospitals, restaurants, hotels etc.

7. National Strategy for Human Rights: This strategy includes measures to prevent and eliminate all forms of discrimination and promote equality among all citizens.

8. International Conventions: Jordan has signed international conventions that protect against discrimination including the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD), the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).

Violation of these laws can result in fines or imprisonment for individuals found guilty of discrimination.

5. How does Jordan’s legal system safeguard freedom of speech and expression?


The Jordanian legal system safeguards freedom of speech and expression through a combination of constitutional guarantees, laws, and international agreements.

1) Constitutional guarantees: Article 15 of the Jordanian Constitution guarantees freedom of opinion and expression for all citizens, as well as the right to receive and impart information without interference from authorities.

2) Press and publication law: The Jordanian Press and Publication Law protects journalists from prosecution for expressing their opinions or reporting on issues of public interest. It also prohibits censorship of the press before publication.

3) Access to Information Law: In 2007, Jordan passed an Access to Information Law that allows citizens to request government-held information on any issue. This promotes transparency and provides a mechanism for citizens to hold their government accountable.

4) International agreements: Jordan is a signatory to various international agreements that protect freedom of speech, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the Arab Charter on Human Rights.

Additionally, the judiciary plays a crucial role in safeguarding freedom of expression by reviewing cases brought against individuals or media outlets for violating these laws or constitutional provisions. The courts have consistently ruled in favor of protecting freedom of speech in cases involving journalists, bloggers, activists, and social media users. There have also been efforts to reform outdated legislation that restricts free speech, such as the Cybercrime law which was amended in 2018 to better protect online expression.

Moreover, there are active civil society organizations working to promote media freedom and protect journalists’ rights in Jordan. These organizations provide legal assistance to those facing charges related to freedom of expression and advocate for reforms that enhance media freedom.

6. What are the requirements for fair and impartial trials in Jordan?


The main requirements for fair and impartial trials in Jordan are outlined in the Jordanian Constitution, the Code of Criminal Procedure, and other laws and regulations. These requirements include:

1. Presumption of innocence: Under Jordanian law, every accused person is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of law.

2. Equality before the law: All individuals, regardless of their race, gender, religion, or social status, have the right to equal treatment before the law.

3. Right to legal representation: Accused persons have the right to a lawyer of their own choosing or to request a court-appointed lawyer if they cannot afford one.

4. Public trials: In general, trials in Jordan should be open to the public unless there are specific reasons for them to be held in private, such as protection of national security.

5. Right to be notified of charges: The accused must be informed promptly and in detail of the charges against them.

6. Prompt access to a judge: Detained individuals must be brought before a judge within 24 hours or as soon as possible to determine the legality and necessity of their detention.

7. Right to present evidence and witnesses: Both the prosecution and defense have the right to present evidence and call witnesses in support of their case.

8. Impartial judges: Judges must hear cases without bias or prejudice and base their decisions solely on evidence presented during trial.

9. Right against self-incrimination: Defendants have the right not to testify against themselves or admit guilt unless they choose to do so voluntarily.

10. Fair proceedings: Trials must follow established procedures set out in legislation.

11. Appeal process: Defendants have the right to appeal their conviction or sentence through higher courts.

12. Prohibition against double jeopardy: Individuals cannot be tried twice for the same crime after being acquitted or convicted by a court of law.

7. How is due process protected in criminal cases in Jordan?


Due process is protected in criminal cases in Jordan through several measures, including the following:

1. Presumption of innocence: The Jordanian Constitution guarantees the presumption of innocence for all accused persons until proven guilty in a fair trial.

2. Right to legal counsel: The accused has the right to have a lawyer represent them during all stages of the criminal proceedings, including interrogation, investigation, and trial.

3. Right to remain silent: The accused has the right to remain silent and not testify against themselves. Anything they say or do may be used as evidence against them only if they have waived this right voluntarily and with full knowledge of its consequences.

4. Investigation procedures: The Jordanian Code of Criminal Procedure sets out specific procedures for conducting investigations in a fair and objective manner. These procedures include notifying the suspect of their rights, such as the right to remain silent and the right to access legal counsel.

5. Right to confront witnesses: In criminal cases, the accused has the right to challenge any witness testifying against them and cross-examine them during trial.

6. Right to appeal: If found guilty, the accused has the right to appeal their conviction before an appellate court for review.

7. Protection against double jeopardy: According to Article 28 of Jordan’s Constitution, no one can be prosecuted or punished more than once for the same crime.

8. Transparency of court proceedings: All courts in Jordan are open to the public unless there is a compelling reason for secrecy. This allows for transparency and accountability in criminal trials.

9. Fair trial standards: Courts in Jordan are required to follow fair trial standards, such as impartiality, equal treatment under the law, and adherence to legal principles and evidence laws.

10. Judicial oversight: The Supreme Judicial Council oversees and ensures that judges adhere to proper judicial practices during criminal trials.

11. International treaties and agreements: As a member state of international organizations such as the United Nations, Jordan is bound by international agreements and conventions that guarantee due process in criminal cases.

8. How does the government uphold privacy rights for its citizens in Jordan?


The government of Jordan upholds privacy rights for its citizens through several mechanisms and laws, including:

1. The Constitution of Jordan: Article 9 of the Constitution guarantees the inviolability of private life and personal liberty for all individuals.

2. Personal Data Protection Law: In 2018, Jordan passed a Personal Data Protection Law that regulates how personal data is collected, processed, and shared by both public and private entities.

3. Electronic Transactions Law: This law regulates electronic transactions and protects individuals’ right to privacy in online activities.

4. Digital Security Law: This law criminalizes unauthorized access to computer systems, networks, or databases, thereby protecting the privacy of individuals’ personal data stored online.

5. National Center for Human Rights (NCHR): Established in 2016, the NCHR is responsible for monitoring human rights violations in Jordan, including violations of privacy rights.

6. Cybercrime Directorate: Within the Public Security Directorate (PSD), the Cybercrime Directorate is responsible for investigating cybercrimes, such as identity theft and online fraud, which can potentially violate citizens’ privacy rights.

7. Accountability mechanisms: The government has set up mechanisms to hold accountable those who infringe upon citizens’ privacy rights. For example, any individual or institution found guilty of violating privacy laws can face fines or imprisonment.

8. International agreements and conventions: Jordan is a signatory to various international treaties that protect privacy rights, such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR).

Overall, the government of Jordan recognizes the importance of protecting its citizens’ privacy rights and continues to take steps to safeguard them through laws, institutions, and international agreements.

9. Are there specific laws protecting minority groups from violence or discrimination in Jordan?


Yes, there are specific laws in Jordan that protect minority groups from violence and discrimination. These include:

1. The Jordanian Constitution: Article 3 of the Jordanian Constitution prohibits discrimination based on race, language, religion or belief.

2. The Criminal Code: The Jordanian Criminal Code includes provisions that criminalize acts of discrimination and incitement to hatred on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion or beliefs.

3. Anti-Discrimination Law: In 2006, a new law was introduced in Jordan which specifically prohibits discrimination on the basis of gender, nationality, race, language or disability.

4. Anti-Trafficking Law: The Anti-Trafficking Law was introduced in 2009 to combat human trafficking and protect victims from exploitation. This law applies to all individuals regardless of their nationality or place of origin.

5. Labor and Employment Laws: Various labor and employment laws in Jordan prohibit employers from discriminating against employees based on their ethnicity, religion or beliefs.

6. Protection of Women against Violence Law: This law was enacted in 2017 to protect women from all forms of violence including domestic violence and gender-based violence.

7. Disability Rights Law: In 2007, a new law was passed in Jordan to protect the rights of people with disabilities and ensure their equal participation in society.

8. Jordan is also party to several international conventions that protect minority rights such as the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD) and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).

Overall, while there are laws in place to protect minority groups in Jordan, discrimination and violence against minorities still occur. Therefore, it is important for these laws to be strictly enforced and for ongoing efforts to be made towards promoting equality and tolerance among all individuals regardless of their ethnic or religious backgrounds.

10. What legal provisions exist to ensure access to education and healthcare for all citizens in Jordan?


Education:
1. Education Act of 2018: This act guarantees the right to free and compulsory education for all Jordanian citizens, from primary to secondary levels.

2. Compulsory Education Law of 1976: This law makes it mandatory for children between the ages of 6 and 16 to attend school, with penalties for parents who do not comply.

3. Special Education Law of 1993: This law outlines the rights of people with disabilities to education and establishes programs to ensure their inclusion in mainstream educational settings.

4. The National Strategy for Human Resource Development (2016-2025): This strategy targets improving overall access and quality of education in Jordan, particularly for underserved populations such as girls and refugees.

Healthcare:
1. Health Insurance Law (2000): This law requires employers in both private and public sectors to provide health insurance coverage for their employees, which includes access to healthcare services at government-owned medical facilities.

2. National Health Insurance Law (2019): Under this law, all Jordanian citizens are eligible for a Basic Health Insurance Package that covers essential healthcare services including consultations, medication, surgeries, diagnostic tests, and hospitalization.

3. Ministry of Health Institutionalization Law (2020): This law aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the healthcare system in Jordan by establishing guidelines for better management, planning, and budgeting at the Ministry of Health level.

4. Refugee Healthcare Access Policy (2017): This policy allows Syrian refugees living in Jordan access to primary healthcare services through partnerships between the Ministry of Health and humanitarian organizations.

5. King Abdullah Fund For Development Medical Program: This program provides financial assistance for low-income families who are unable to afford necessary medical treatments or procedures.

In addition to these laws, the Jordanian constitution also guarantees equal access to education and healthcare for all citizens regardless of gender or social status. The government also implements several initiatives to promote equal opportunities for education and healthcare, such as providing transportation and meals to children in remote areas to attend school, and offering mobile health clinics in underserved regions.

11. How does the justice system handle cases of police misconduct or abuse of power in Jordan?


The Jordanian justice system has various mechanisms in place to handle cases of police misconduct or abuse of power. These include:

1. Internal Affairs Department: The Ministry of Interior has an internal affairs department that is responsible for investigating complaints against police officers and addressing cases of misconduct within the police force.

2. Independent Police Complaints Commission: In 2014, the government established an independent commission to receive complaints related to police actions from citizens and investigate them independently. This commission operates under the supervision of the Prime Minister’s Office.

3. Special Prosecutor for Police Abuse Cases: The Attorney General’s office has a special prosecutor designated to handle cases of abuse or misconduct by security personnel, including police officers.

4. Civilian Oversight Board: Jordan also has a civilian oversight board consisting of members from civil society organizations that monitor police behavior and conduct investigations into suspected cases of abuse or misconduct.

5. Courts: Victims of police misconduct or abuse can seek legal recourse through the court system by filing a complaint and pursuing a criminal case against the accused officer(s).

In addition to these mechanisms, there are also laws and regulations in place that govern police conduct and prohibit abuse or misuse of power, such as the Code of Criminal Procedure and the Penal Code. The government also conducts regular training programs for law enforcement officials on human rights principles and professional conduct to prevent instances of abuse or misconduct within the police force.

12. Are there any measures taken by the government to protect citizens’ voting rights and fair elections in Jordan?


Yes, the government of Jordan has taken several measures to protect citizens’ voting rights and ensure fair elections. These include:

1) The Constitution of Jordan guarantees the right to vote for all citizens aged 18 years and above.
2) The Independent Election Commission (IEC) is responsible for supervising and conducting all elections in a transparent and fair manner.
3) Voter registration is done electronically, ensuring accuracy and preventing voter fraud.
4) Electoral laws prohibit discrimination based on gender, religion, ethnicity, or any other criteria.
5) There are strict laws in place to prevent vote-buying or any other form of election manipulation.
6) Political parties are allowed to monitor the election process to ensure fairness.
7) International observers from countries such as the United Nations and the European Union are invited to monitor elections to ensure transparency.
8) Measures have been taken to increase access to voting for people with disabilities, including providing special polling stations and facilitating transportation.
9) The media is allowed to cover election campaigns and debates freely without censorship.
10) Civic education programs are conducted by government agencies and NGOs to raise awareness about the importance of voting and how to exercise this right effectively.

Overall, these measures demonstrate the commitment of the Jordanian government towards protecting citizens’ voting rights and ensuring free and fair elections.

13. Are international human rights treaties ratified and enforced by the government of Jordan?


Yes, Jordan has ratified numerous international human rights treaties and is recognized as having generally adhered to their obligations. Some examples of these treaties include the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. The government also cooperates with various United Nations bodies and agencies to monitor and promote human rights in the country.

However, there have been concerns raised by human rights organizations about certain issues such as restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly, torture and mistreatment in detention facilities, and discrimination against women and marginalized groups. The government has taken steps to address some of these issues through legal reforms and initiatives, but further efforts are needed to fully comply with international human rights standards. The Human Rights Watch 2020 report described Jordan’s human rights situation as “dire” due to a “lack of meaningful political change” and increased repression.

14. Is there a legal framework for protecting workers’ rights, including minimum wage and safe working conditions, in Jordan?


Yes, Jordan has a legal framework in place to protect workers’ rights. The main legislation that protects workers in Jordan is the Labor Law No. 8 of 1996, which sets out the rights and obligations of both employers and employees.

Under this law, all workers in Jordan are entitled to a minimum wage, which is set by the government and reviewed periodically. In addition, workers are entitled to a range of other benefits including annual leave, sick leave, and maternity leave.

The Labor Law also sets out regulations for workplace safety and health. Employers are required to provide a safe working environment for their employees and ensure compliance with relevant safety standards.

Furthermore, there are several laws in place to protect specific categories of workers such as women, children, domestic workers, and persons with disabilities. These laws aim to ensure fair treatment and protection for these vulnerable groups in the workforce.

If an employee feels their rights have been violated or they have not received their entitlements according to the law, they can file a complaint with the Ministry of Labor or take legal action through the court system. The government has established labor courts specifically dedicated to resolving employment-related disputes.

Overall, there are multiple laws and legal protections in place in Jordan to safeguard workers’ rights and promote fair working conditions.

15. How does the justice system handle cases of domestic violence and protect victims’ rights in Jordan?


In Jordan, domestic violence cases are handled in accordance with the Law on Protection from Family Violence (Law No. 6 of 2008). This law defines domestic violence as a criminal act and provides legal protection for victims.

When a case of domestic violence is reported, the police are required to immediately intervene and take necessary measures to protect the victim and ensure their safety. The victim can also seek help from specialized Family Protection Units established within the police force. These units are staffed with female officers trained in handling such cases.

The victim also has the right to file a complaint with the prosecutor’s office, who will then conduct an investigation into the case and determine if there is enough evidence for prosecution. If found guilty, abusers can face imprisonment or fines.

In addition, victims have access to shelters and legal aid services provided by NGOs and government agencies. They can also request restraining orders against their abuser.

Overall, the justice system in Jordan takes domestic violence cases seriously and works towards protecting victims’ rights and providing them with necessary support. However, there is still room for improvement in terms of awareness and implementation of laws to prevent domestic violence and provide robust support for victims.

16. Are there any specific laws protecting children’s rights and welfare in Jordan?


Yes, there are specific laws in Jordan that aim to protect children’s rights and welfare. These laws include:

1. The Child Rights Law (Law No. 6 of 2014): This law ensures the protection and promotion of children’s rights in all areas, including health, education, safety, and well-being.

2. The Juveniles Act (Law No. 24 of 1968): This law focuses on the protection and rehabilitation of juveniles who come into conflict with the law.

3. The Personal Status Law (Law No. 36 of 2010): This law includes provisions for marriage, divorce, custody, and inheritance that aim to protect children’s rights and best interests.

4. The Labor Law (Law No. 8 of 1996): This law sets standards for child labor in Jordan, prohibiting children under the age of fifteen from working.

5. The Education Reform for Knowledge Economy Project (ERfKEP) (Law No. 8 of 2009): This initiative aims to improve access to quality education for all children in Jordan.

6. The National Strategy for Human Resource Development (2007-2020): This strategy includes goals and objectives related to promoting child welfare and ensuring their right to education.

Moreover, Jordan has ratified several international treaties related to protecting children’s rights and welfare, such as the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) and its Optional Protocols on the involvement of children in armed conflict and sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography.

17.Define defamation laws implemented legally against harassment or hate crimes targeting individuals or groups based on their identity or beliefs.


Defamation laws are legal protections that aim to prevent harassment or hate crimes targeting individuals or groups based on their identity or beliefs. These laws typically fall under the category of civil laws, as they seek to address harm caused by one person’s words or actions against another.

There are two types of defamation: libel and slander. Libel refers to a defamatory statement that is made in writing or in a permanent form, such as a newspaper article or social media post. Slander, on the other hand, refers to a defamatory statement that is spoken orally.

In order for a statement to be considered defamation, it must meet certain criteria:

1. The statement must be false: Truth is an absolute defense against defamation. If the statement is true, it cannot be considered defamatory.

2. The statement must be published: This means that the false statement must be communicated to at least one other person besides the target of the defamation.

3. The statement must identify the target: Defamation laws protect individuals from being harassed or attacked based on their identity or beliefs, so the statement must specifically name or identify the target.

4. The statement must be damaging: The false statement must cause harm to the reputation of the target, resulting in material or personal injury.

Harassment and hate crimes based on an individual’s identity can also fall under defamation laws. In these cases, the false statements may not necessarily have been made directly about the target, but they still cause harm by perpetuating negative stereotypes and contributing to discrimination and violence against certain groups.

Those who have been targeted by defamatory statements can seek legal recourse through a civil lawsuit for damages such as loss of income, emotional distress, and harm to their reputation. Some jurisdictions also recognize criminal defamation, which involves making false statements with knowing intent to cause harm to someone else’s reputation.

Overall, defamation laws serve as an important tool for protecting individuals and groups from harassment and hate crimes based on their identity or beliefs. They promote respect and civility in society by holding individuals accountable for their actions and words, while also seeking to compensate those who have been harmed.

18.Do foreigners enjoy equal legal rights as citizens when living or visiting Jordan?


Foreigners do not enjoy the same legal rights as citizens when living or visiting Jordan. While there are certain laws and regulations in place to protect the rights of foreigners, they may still face discrimination and unequal treatment compared to citizens.

For example, non-citizens do not have the right to vote or hold public office in Jordan. They may also be subject to different taxation rules and restrictions on property ownership.

Additionally, some laws or regulations may favor citizens over foreigners, particularly in areas such as employment and access to social services. Non-citizens may also face difficulties in obtaining necessary permits or visas for work or travel.

However, Jordan does have anti-discrimination laws that prohibit discrimination based on nationality, race, gender, religion, or language. Foreigners also have access to legal representation and can file complaints if their rights are violated.

Overall, while foreigners do not have equal legal rights as citizens in Jordan, efforts are being made to ensure their protection and fair treatment under the law.

19.How do whistleblowers receive protection from retaliation if they report unethical or illegal activities by their employer or colleagues?


Whistleblowers can receive protection from retaliation by reporting unethical or illegal activities through various legal channels. Some common forms of protection include:

1. Whistleblower laws: Many countries have specific laws that protect whistleblowers from retaliation, such as the False Claims Act in the US or the Public Interest Disclosure Act in the UK.

2. Confidentiality: Whistleblowers may choose to remain anonymous or keep their identity confidential when reporting unethical or illegal activities to minimize the risk of retaliation.

3. Reporting to a higher authority: Whistleblowers can report their concerns to a higher authority within the organization, such as a supervisor, manager, or a designated compliance officer.

4. Reporting to external agencies: If an internal report does not yield results, whistleblowers can also report their concerns to external agencies such as government agencies or law enforcement authorities.

5. Legal action: Whistleblowers have the right to take legal action against their employer if they face retaliation for reporting unethical or illegal activities.

6. Whistleblower hotlines: Many organizations have implemented whistleblower hotlines where employees can anonymously report unethical or illegal activities without fear of retaliation.

It is essential for organizations to have clear policies and procedures in place for whistleblowing and provide protection to those who come forward with information about possible wrongdoing. It helps create a culture of accountability and transparency while preventing retribution against those who act in the public interest by reporting unethical or unlawful behavior.

20.In what ways do disability laws mandate societies’ accommodation to special needs and accessibility for individuals with disabilities in Jordan?


1. Jordanian Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (Law No. 20 of 2017): This law was enacted to protect and promote the rights of persons with disabilities in all aspects of life, including education, employment, healthcare, transportation, housing, and accessibility.

2. Accessibility standards: The law mandates that all public buildings, transportation vehicles, and communication devices be made accessible for persons with disabilities. This includes features such as ramps, handrails, tactile markings, auditory aids, and others.

3. Reasonable accommodation: Employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities to ensure equal opportunities for employment and career advancement.

4. Inclusive education: The law ensures that children with disabilities have equal access to education in mainstream schools or special education institutes based on their individual needs.

5. Specialized services: The law mandates the provision of specialized services such as rehabilitation programs, assistive devices, and therapy for persons with disabilities.

6. Employment quotas: Both public and private sector employers are required to reserve a certain percentage of jobs for persons with disabilities according to the Ministry’s regulations.

7. Anti-discrimination provisions: It is illegal to discriminate against a person on the basis of their disability in any aspect of life including employment, housing, healthcare or education.

8. Enforcement mechanisms: The law establishes a national committee for the care and rehabilitation of persons with disabilities which is responsible for monitoring implementation and enforcing compliance by relevant parties.

9. Sign language interpretation: The law requires government agencies to provide sign language interpretation services at their facilities upon request from individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.

10. Parking permits: Disabled parking permits are available to individuals who require them due to mobility impairments or other related conditions under specific criteria set by the Ministry.

11. Telecommunications accessibility: Telecommunication companies are required by law to provide accessible call services for people who are deaf or hard of hearing through the use of text messaging, video calls, or other assistive technologies.

12. Social inclusion programs: The law encourages the participation of persons with disabilities in sports, arts, and cultural activities by providing support and incentives for their involvement.

13. Barrier-free environment: The law requires that all public transportation vehicles be equipped with appropriate accessibility features and that buses designated for persons with disabilities be readily available to accommodate their needs.

14. Training and awareness: The law mandates the provision of training programs for service providers and raising awareness about disability issues in society to promote a better understanding and acceptance of persons with disabilities.

15. Protection from abuse: The law includes provisions to protect persons with disabilities from any form of violence, abuse or exploitation, as well as the establishment of a hotline to report incidents of abuse.

16. Financial assistance: Individuals with severe disabilities who are unable to work may receive financial assistance from the government under specific criteria set by the Ministry.

17. Relief measures during emergencies: In emergency situations, special measures must be taken to provide for the needs of persons with disabilities, such as accessible transportation and accommodation services.

18. Accessibility in public events: Organizers of public events are required to ensure accessibility for persons with disabilities through appropriate facilities and resources that enable their full participation in these events.

19. International conventions: Jordan has ratified several international conventions related to disability rights, including the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), which sets out a comprehensive framework for promoting and protecting the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities.

20. Legal recourse: Individuals who feel their rights have been violated can seek legal recourse through filing complaints at specialized courts or by reporting violations to relevant authorities responsible for enforcing disability laws in Jordan.