The new Cybercrimes Law in Jordan has been a cause for concern among human rights organizations, as it has been used to target and harass journalists, activists, and others who express critical opinions online. Amnesty International has highlighted the misuse of this law by Jordanian authorities to stifle freedom of expression and silence dissenting voices.
The Cybercrimes Law, enacted on 13 August 2023, introduced amendments that expanded the scope of offenses and granted the public prosecutor the power to initiate prosecutions without a personal complaint, particularly in cases related to governmental figures or entities. The law includes vague and broad offenses such as „spreading fake news,“ „provoking strife,“ „threatening societal peace,“ and „contempt for religions,“ which have been used to criminalize protected forms of expression.
Amnesty International has documented cases of individuals being prosecuted under the Cybercrimes Law for criticizing the government online. These cases have involved violations of the defendants‘ rights, including arrests without warrants, lack of information on charges, interrogation without legal representation, and the use of coercive tactics during trials.
The crackdown on freedom of expression in Jordan has targeted various forms of dissent, including criticism of government policies, pro-Palestine activism, and calls for peaceful protests. Individuals like lawyer and activist Moutaz Awwad and journalist Hiba Abu Taha have faced charges and convictions under the Cybercrimes Law for expressing their opinions online.
The use of the Cybercrimes Law to silence critics has emboldened authorities to intensify their crackdown on dissent. Prominent journalist Ahmad Hassan al-Zoubi was sentenced to prison for criticizing the government’s response to strikes, while activists and journalists covering pro-Palestine protests have also been targeted.
In addition to the Cybercrimes Law, governors in Jordan have used the Crime Prevention Law to detain critics and activists without charge or trial. This administrative detention bypasses fair trial safeguards and is used as a punitive measure to intimidate individuals who speak out against the government.
The situation in Jordan highlights the need for the authorities to repeal or amend the Cybercrimes Law to align with international human rights standards. Freedom of expression is a fundamental right that should be protected, and individuals should not face prosecution for peacefully expressing their opinions online. Amnesty International calls for the immediate dropping of charges against those targeted under the Cybercrimes Law and for the restoration of freedom of expression in Jordan.