In August 2023, Jordan enacted a new Cybercrimes Law that had a profound impact on the freedom of expression within the country. The new amendments to the original 2015 Cybercrimes Law have significantly broadened the scope of offenses and endowed public prosecutors with the authority to take legal action against individuals for actions against government figures or entities, even in the absence of a personal complaint. This has led to a stifling of dissent and an increase in the persecution of journalists, activists, and citizens who speak out against the government. Over the past year, numerous instances of harassment and prosecution have highlighted the repressive nature of this legal reform, which has proven to be a tool for quashing free expression and activism.
Broadening the Scope of Offenses
The new Cybercrimes Law introduces severe penalties for ambiguous offenses such as “spreading fake news,” “provoking strife,” “threatening societal peace,” and “contempt for religions.” These vague terms have been weaponized to target expressions protected under international law, leading to a chilling effect on speech. Amnesty International has documented numerous cases where individuals faced legal action for merely expressing their opinions online.
For instance, lawyer and activist Moutaz Awwad was fined for social media posts criticizing the policies of Arab nations toward Israel. Similarly, journalist Hiba Abu Taha is serving a one-year prison sentence for her criticism of Jordan’s interception of Iranian missiles destined for Israel. The lack of transparency in her appeal process highlights the judicial system’s failings under the new law. These cases illustrate the pervasive reach of the Cybercrimes Law in silencing dissent and limiting freedom of expression, even when such expressions fall within protected speech under international human rights standards.
Targeting Journalists and Activists
Journalists and activists have been particularly targeted under the Cybercrimes Law, facing severe penalties for their expression. Prominent journalist and satirist Ahmad Hassan al-Zoubi was sentenced to a year in prison for “provoking strife” due to a Facebook post criticizing the government’s response to strikes. Despite significant public support initially deterring the implementation of his sentence, he was ultimately arrested in July 2024, underscoring the precarious position of journalists and critics in Jordan.
Pro-Palestinian activism has also become a focal point for government repression. Activist Fatima Shubeilat was detained without prior notice after participating in a pro-Palestine sit-in. Released on bail, she now faces new charges under the Cybercrimes Law, with her trial ongoing. These cases epitomize the government’s concerted effort to suppress dissent and curb freedom of expression, particularly in matters regarding Israel and Palestine. The targeting of specific individuals for their activism or criticism of the government sends a clear message that dissent will not be tolerated.
The Role of the Crime Prevention Law
In addition to the Cybercrimes Law, the Jordanian government has utilized the Crime Prevention Law as an instrument of suppression. This law grants governors the authority to detain individuals without charge or trial through administrative orders, circumventing the safeguards usually provided in criminal proceedings. Activists like Majd al-Farraj and Samer al-Qassem have experienced administrative detention as punitive measures for their pro-Palestine activities and criticisms expressed on social media.
The use of the Crime Prevention Law in conjunction with the Cybercrimes Law has created an environment of fear and self-censorship. Individuals are increasingly deterred from expressing their opinions or engaging in activism due to the looming threat of legal repercussions and administrative detention. This dual approach of legislative and administrative suppression serves to tighten the noose around free expression and erode the space for civic engagement.
Impact on Freedom of Expression and Civic Space
In August 2023, Jordan implemented a new Cybercrimes Law that deeply affected freedom of expression in the nation. These amendments to the original 2015 Cybercrimes Law greatly expanded the range of punishable offenses and granted public prosecutors the power to pursue legal action against individuals criticizing government figures or institutions, even if no personal complaint was lodged. This development has notably suppressed dissent and fueled more persecution of journalists, activists, and ordinary citizens who dare to speak against governmental authorities. Over the past year, there have been numerous documented cases of harassment and legal actions that underscore the oppressive nature of these reforms. This law has proven to be a powerful instrument for silencing free speech and curbing activism, thereby undermining basic human rights in Jordan. The increase in such repressive measures has sparked national and international concern about the deteriorating state of civil liberties in the country.
