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| Report on the freedom of the press in Jordan | Date: 17-11-1998 |
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Black Year for Democracy in Jordan On September 1, Jordan breached her international obligations and violated her own constitution and National Charter by promulgating a press law that severely restricts freedom of expression by granting authorities broad powers over the press; limiting access to all types of printed information; and restricting the activities of independent research institutes. "Black Year for Democracy in Jordan", a new report published today, documents how the law imposes a sweeping regime of censorship and hence represents a serious setback for the protection and promotion of democracy and human rights. The report is written by the Jordanian journalist and writer, Ms Sa'eda Kilani. In November 1997, Jordan signed an Association Agreement with the European Union (EU). The signing took place in the spirit of the Barcelona Declaration, November 1995, which aims at fostering dialogue, peace, stability and prosperity in the Mediterranean region. Article 2 of the Agreement states that all of its provisions shall be based on respect for democratic principles and fundamental human rights as set out in the Universal Declaration on Human Rights, which guides the Parties' internal and international policy and constitutes an essential element of the Agreement. However, the new law imposes a number of restrictions on the content of journalists' work by prohibiting the publication of any news or opinion that disparages the King or Royal Family; relates in any way to the Armed Forces unless authorised; fails to present news in an objective manner; insults the heads of Arab or friendly States; leads to moral corruption; undermines confidence in the national currency or incites public gatherings in violation of the law. Newspapers found to be in violation of any of these content bans face heavy fines and/or the possibility of closure. "Black Year for Democracy" in Jordan argues that the Law breaks with an unparalleled development in Jordan's history of allowing free debate in the private press, breaking centuries-old taboo in a tolerant atmosphere, and reinforcing Jordanians confidence and trust in their leadership. The report offers a series of key concerns and recommendations, specifically the need for Jordanian authorities to revoke the law. It will be presented by Sa'eda Kilani at a press conference in the European Parliament, Wednesday,18 November 1998. Sa'eda Kilani's report, is supported by ARTICLE 19; Centre for Media Freedom, Middle East and North Africa; the Committee to Protect Journalists; the Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Network; the International Federation of Human Rights Leagues (FIDH); Human Rights Watch; and Reporters sans Frontières. |
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