The implementation of freedom of expression in Jordan

Abstract

Freedom of expression is a fundamental pillar of democratic societies, facilitating the exchange of ideas, opinions, and information. It is crucial in promoting open and inclusive societies, enabling citizens to engage in public discourse, challenge prevailing norms, and hold those in power accountable. However, the interpretation and application of this universal human right vary across nations due to cultural, legal, and political factors.

This study performs an in-depth analysis of freedom of expression in Jordan. The historical, cultural, and legal framework of Jordan creates a platform where the expression of freedom and its enactment have a unified environment that is complex and confusing. This research investigates into the legal context as well as ethics, international law, and the practical aspects of practising freedom of expression in Jordan.

The main findings indicated that although the Jordanian Constitution gives expression freedom of thought and expression, some laws and regulations include factors of national security and public order in the justification of censorship. This framework has a consequential effect in that it creates doubt and uncertainty in establishing where the conjunct for free expression starts and ends. Moreover, societal norms and cultural factors that affect the exercise of this right are formed through the competing pressures to preserve social consent and foster critical thinking.

This study underlines the urgency to continue conducting research on the historical and cultural factors behind freedom of expression as a gap exists between the mere existing knowledge. It prescribes initialising the protection for the speech's liberty in such a manner that security concerns along with the domestic legislation get spearheaded along with the international rules will be crafted accordingly. The research recommends constitutional additions, legal revisions, and more judicial independence as instruments to maintain the inviolability of this core praxis.

Therefore, by looking into the intricacies, pitfalls, and prospects of freedom of expression in Jordan, this research can conjure an in-depth insight into the topic. This suggests that way of illuminating the complex ramifications of the principle to legislators, lawyers, non-governmental organisations and international workers helps foster the protection of freedom of expression and facilitates a more democratic and open society for Jordan.