Authorities in Jordan are using a Cybercrimes law to suppress online criticism of government policies and practices, in contravention of international human rights law, according to Amnesty International.
Despite widespread concerns, the Cybercrimes Law 2015 was revised on August 13, 2023, by Cybercrime Law No. 173. The law’s ambiguous drafting introduces harsh penalties for offenses such as “spreading fake news,” “provoking strife,” “threatening societal peace,” and “contempt for religions.”
Out of the 15 cases Amnesty International documented, the path to prosecution was marred by human rights violations. Defendants were allegedly arrested without warrants, subjected to intimidation, and denied access to legal counsel. Authorities relied on Articles 15 and 17 for prosecution in all documented cases.
- Article 15 criminalizes online publication or sharing of “fake news targeting the national security and community peace” or information that “defames or insults an individual.” Conviction results in a minimum three-month sentence and a fine between $7,000 and $28,200.
- Article 17 criminalizes online expression that “provokes strife or sedition, threatens societal peace, incites hatred, calls for or justifies violence, or insults religions.” Conviction leads to a one-to-three-year sentence and/or a fine between $7,000 and $28,200.
According to the statement, hundreds of pro-Palestinian activists over the last year have been charged for social media posts criticizing authorities, expressing pro-Palestinian sentiment, or calling for peaceful protests and strikes.
Amnesty International’s Deputy Director for the Middle East and North Africa, Aya Majzoub, criticized the law, stating:
Under the pretext of protecting the digital space, Jordanian authorities have escalated their blatant assault on the rights of freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly in the country, using overly broad provisions. They have particularly targeted recent pro-Palestine activism and criticism of government policies towards Israel. This sweeping crackdown has stifled the already small space for dissent in Jordan and created an environment of self-censorship.
In June, journalist Hiba Abu Tahu was convicted for expressing views online that Jordan was involved in genocide in Gaza. In July, lawyer and activist Moutaz Awwad was convicted for criticizing Arab countries’ policies towards Israel.
Majzoub called on the authorities to repeal or amend the law in a manner consistent with international human rights obligations. Additionally, Majzoub urged the authorities to drop all illegitimate charges.