40/10 Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review - Jordan

GE.19-00150(E)

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Human Rights Council Fortieth session

25 February–22 March 2019

Agenda item 6

Universal periodic review

Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review*

Jordan

* The annex is being circulated without formal editing, in the language of submission only.

United Nations A/HRC/40/10

Introduction

1. The Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review, established in accordance

with Human Rights Council resolution 5/1, held its thirty-first session from 5 to 16

November 2018. The review of Jordan was held at the 7th meeting, on 8 November 2018.

The delegation of Jordan was headed by the General Government Coordinator for Human

Rights, Bassel al Tarawneh. At its 14th meeting, held on 13 November 2018, the Working

Group adopted the report on Jordan.

2. On 10 January 2018, the Human Rights Council selected the following group of

rapporteurs (troika) to facilitate the review of Jordan: Afghanistan, United States of

America and Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of). On 13 July 2018, following the decision

of the United States to withdraw from membership of the Human Rights Council, the

General Assembly elected Iceland as a new member of the Council replacing the United

States. Consequently, Iceland replaced the United States as a member of the troika for the

universal periodic review of Jordan.

3. In accordance with paragraph 15 of the annex to Human Rights Council resolution

5/1 and paragraph 5 of the annex to Council resolution 16/21, the following documents

were issued for the review of Jordan:

(a) A national report submitted/written presentation made in accordance with

paragraph 15 (a) (A/HRC/WG.6/31/JOR/1);

(b) A compilation prepared by the Office of the United Nations High

Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in accordance with paragraph 15 (b)

(A/HRC/WG.6/31/JOR/2);

(c) A summary prepared by OHCHR in accordance with paragraph 15 (c)

(A/HRC/WG.6/31/JOR/3).

4. A list of questions prepared in advance by Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Germany,

Lichtenstein, Portugal, on behalf of the Group of Friends on national implementation,

reporting and follow-up, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and United Kingdom of

Great Britain and Northern Ireland was transmitted to Jordan through the troika. These

questions are available on the website of the universal periodic review.

I. Summary of the proceedings of the review process

A. Presentation by the State under review

5. The head of the delegation highlighted that progress on human rights was important

for ensuring stability, security and peace internationally, and strengthening the confidence

of Jordanian society.

6. The universal periodic review process had helped Jordan to assess its own human

rights situation.

7. Jordan was creating national institutions to reform its human rights framework and

to make progress in achieving sustainable development to ensure a decent life for all.

8. Jordan had made significant progress in protecting human rights and fundamental

freedoms, despite difficult circumstances in the region, particularly in relation to security.

9. Fundamental rights and freedoms for all were guaranteed under the Constitution,

and freedom of opinion, of expression, of the press, to publish, of the media and of

correspondence were valued in Jordan. Jordanian citizens were free to establish trade

unions and political parties. Efforts had focused on protecting and promoting human rights

for those living in remote and deprived areas, and the Government was intent on protecting

the rights of women, children, older persons and persons with disabilities. Education was

free and compulsory for all children.

10. The Comprehensive National Human Rights Plan for the period 2016–2025 had

been established to reduce gaps in human rights policy and practice.

11. In March 2014, the Government had created the Office of the Government

Coordinator for Human Rights, which had led to a number of initiatives being implemented

through a comprehensive human rights protection system. Jordan had published periodic

reports to demonstrate its progress made in laws, practice and policy relating to human

rights.

12. In October 2018, the Office had been elevated to ministerial level.

13. A higher committee had been established within the Office, involving ministers and

leaders of national institutions and trade unions, to examine human rights treaties and

incorporate them into the national legislative framework.

14. The Office had established a national commission to follow up on recommendations

from the National Centre for Human Rights and to ensure that the Comprehensive National

Human Rights Plan was implemented by 2025.

15. In 2016, Jordan had organized parliamentary elections to strengthen its democratic

system. An impartial commission had supervised the elections, in accordance with

international best practices. The level of female representation in the parliament had risen.

In 2017, municipal and provincial elections had been held in order to decentralize power.

16. Jordan had amalgamated the mandates of the Integrity and Anti-Corruption

Commission and the Office of the Ombudsman in order to combat corruption and ensure

the integrity of the Government. The rule of law was important in Jordan for achieving

democracy, economic prosperity and a productive society.

17. Combating extremism was a challenge in the region, although the Government was

increasing its efforts to ensure the realization of human rights despite that challenge. Jordan

had adopted the Sharia Courts Act of 2016 in order to guarantee access to justice, fair

sentencing and the possibility of appeal. The status of sharia courts had been amended to

review sentences, to create an appeals process and to protect juveniles and vulnerable

groups.

18. Jordan had adopted laws on combating corruption and embezzlement and on

accessing information to improve national integrity and strengthen its human rights system.

19. The promotion of women’s rights was important in Jordan. A draft law relating to

women in the public sector had been adopted to promote the role of women. Further

developments included the adoption of laws on flexible working hours, inheritance rights,

women in senior positions and childcare.

20. A national plan for the implementation of Security Council resolution 1325 (2000)

on women and peace and security had been adopted. Other mechanisms such as the

National Plan for Implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals 2030 had also

been adopted, and the National Strategy for Women 2013–2017 was being updated for the

period 2020–2030.

21. The adoption of Act No. 20 of 2017 aimed to provide better social and financial

assistance for persons with disabilities and their family members. Under article 25,

organizations were required to set aside 4 per cent of positions for persons with disabilities.

The Government had sought to improve accessibility in public buildings and to offer

interpreters, sign language, and video conferencing where necessary.

22. Act No. 32 of 2014 had been amended to facilitate children’s access to the justice

system. The age of criminal responsibility had been raised to 12 years old and non-custodial

sentences had been encouraged.

23. The Government sought to strike a balance between freedom of expression and the

right to privacy, and combating terrorist activities. The national strategy for the period

2011–2015 had provided better working conditions for the communication sector and

improved enjoyment of the right to freedom of information for citizens and journalists. The

Government was working to ensure that journalists worked free from pressure, threat of

dismissal and intimidation.

24. The Comprehensive National Human Rights Plan 2016–2025 gave priority to the

protection of freedom of expression. Prison sentences for relevant offences had been

abolished, intimidation of journalists had been reduced and incitement to hate speech was

being punished.

25. Deprivation of liberty had been replaced, particularly in cases involving minor

offences, with alternative measures such as electronic supervision. The Ministry of Justice

provided free legal aid to any citizen or resident of Jordan in need, which guaranteed access

to justice. Laws had been amended to cover the crime of torture, and amendments had been

made to improve conditions for persons during pretrial proceedings.

26. The Public Security Act had been amended in 2015 to ensure access to justice and

judicial protection. Visits to inspect places of detention had been granted to ensure that

international standards were being met.

27. Jordan was committed to engaging with international treaty bodies and a number of

periodic reports had already been submitted. Financial resources allocated to the Jordanian

National Committee for Women’s Affairs and the National Centre for Human Rights had

been increased to facilitate the process.

28. Jordan lacked sufficient water resources and was categorized as water poor, which

would compromise its efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review

29. During the interactive dialogue, 95 delegations made statements. Recommendations

made during the dialogue are to be found in section II of the present report.

30. Yemen welcomed the detailed national report, which reflected the efforts made by

Jordan in the field of human rights. It commended the establishment of the Comprehensive

National Human Rights Plan and the Plan for Implementation of the Sustainable

Development Goals.

31. Afghanistan commended the achievements made by the Government in

implementing its human rights recommendations, particularly by developing its normative

and institutional frameworks and making national plans and policies for promoting human

rights.

32. Albania welcomed the revision of the framework for judicial proceedings, aimed at

ensuring the right to a fair trial. It encouraged Jordan to strengthen its capacity-building

efforts for legal professionals relating to women’s rights.

33. Algeria welcomed the adoption of several laws and amendments in accordance with

international standards, and the positive response of Jordan to most recommendations made

during the second review cycle.

34. Angola commended Jordan for its constructive cooperation and dialogue with

various national institutions and Human Rights Council mechanisms for the promotion and

protection of human rights.

35. Argentina congratulated Jordan for its approval of the Comprehensive National

Human Rights Plan 2016–2025. It acknowledged the challenges that Jordan faced and the

efforts it had made to protect and assist refugees.

36. Australia commended Jordan for its generosity in hosting a large refugee population

and for creating a shelter for women at risk of honour crimes. However, it raised concerns

about the occurrence of administrative detention.

37. Austria commended the positive steps taken by Jordan to implement the

recommendations it had accepted during the second review cycle. However, it expressed

concerns about the amendments made in 2018 to the already restrictive law on cybercrime.

38. Azerbaijan praised the adoption and implementation of the Comprehensive National

Human Rights Plan 2016–2025, the National Strategy for Persons with Disabilities and the

National Strategy for Women.

39. Bahrain praised the institutional measures taken by Jordan to promote human rights,

such as the establishment of the Cybercrime Unit and the Human Trafficking Unit.

40. Bangladesh commended Jordan for its proactive efforts to reform the judiciary and

for the adoption of new legislation to ensure the rights of persons with disabilities. It

praised the efforts made to combat human trafficking and address unemployment.

41. Belarus praised the laws and strategies adopted on human rights. It noted the

measures taken to improve the judicial system and to protect rights and increase

opportunities for women and persons with disabilities.

42. Belgium acknowledged the positive steps taken by Jordan to implement the

recommendations it had accepted during the second review cycle, including the

establishment of a Royal Commission to develop far-reaching proposals to reform the

judiciary and justice system.

43. Botswana noted the constitutional amendments that had improved the independence

of the judiciary. It referred to the legislative amendments made to the Prevention of

Trafficking in Persons Act and the regulations to protect migrant workers.

44. Brunei Darussalam commended the efforts made to promote and protect human

rights rights through various strategies, including the Strategic Plan for Education (2018–

2022) and the Jordanian National Strategy for the Elderly (2018–2022).

45. Bulgaria noted with appreciation the amendments made to the Law on the National

Centre for Human Rights, the adoption of the Comprehensive National Human Rights Plan

and the efforts made to combat trafficking in persons.

46. Canada encouraged Jordan to end restrictions on meetings of civil society groups

under its Crime Prevention Act in order to respect article 21 of the International Covenant

on Civil and Political Rights and to sustain an active civil society, which was essential in

any stable society.

47. Chile noted with appreciation the humanitarian efforts made by Jordan to receive a

large number of refugees, and praised the quota system established to facilitate women’s

participation in political life. However, it raised concern about the number of cases of

violence against women.

48. China praised the progress made in the areas of economic and social rights, poverty

alleviation, public health, education and the rights of women, children and persons with

disabilities. It acknowledged the positive steps taken towards judicial reform and to combat

extremism.

49. Colombia welcomed the efforts made to provide protection and humanitarian

assistance to Syrian refugees and to establish a new and robust paradigm for international

cooperation in response to humanitarian crises.

50. The Congo welcomed the progress made by Jordan in strengthening its normative

and institutional framework. It commended its continued provision of humanitarian

assistance for refugees, including its crucial role in creating a new and dynamic paradigm

for international cooperation in response to humanitarian crises.

51. Côte d’Ivoire noted with appreciation the reforms undertaken by Jordan at the

legislative and institutional levels. It welcomed its continued provision of protection and

assistance to refugees and its adoption of the Comprehensive National Human Rights Plan

2016–2025.

52. Croatia welcomed the adoption of the Comprehensive National Human Rights Plan

2016–2025 and the progress achieved by Jordan since the previous review cycle in the

protection of women’s rights, including the opening of the first shelter for women victims

of violence.

53. Cuba recognized the steps taken by Jordan to implement the recommendations it had

accepted during the second review cycle, particularly in the updating of its institutional

framework, with a focus on the protection of children, including the establishment of the

Human Trafficking Unit and the efforts made to improve the quality of and access to

education.

54. Cyprus welcomed the steps taken to implement the Comprehensive National Human

Rights Plan 2016–2025 and the reforms undertaken by Jordan, including the adoption of the

Independence of the Judiciary Act.

55. Czechia commended Jordan for its adoption of the Comprehensive National Human

Rights Plan 2016–2025. It noted that the recommendations made by Czechia during the

previous review cycle had not yet been fully implemented.

56. Denmark noted that in the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and

Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, a set of practical tools had

been established on how to prevent torture and ill-treatment. It stressed that the Optional

Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against

Women served as an important tool in the implementation and reinforcement of that

Convention.

57. Egypt commended Jordan for its cooperation with human rights mechanisms and for

its adoption of the Comprehensive National Human Rights Plan 2016–2025. It welcomed

the creation of institutions, including the Royal Commission to develop the judiciary and

enhance the rule of law.

58. Estonia commended Jordan for its extraordinary efforts in hosting a large number of

Syrian refugees and opening double-shift schools to provide education for Syrian refugee

children. It stressed the importance of children’s education regardless of their status in

society.

59. Fiji commended Jordan for the important steps taken in strengthening its national

human rights framework through the adoption of the Comprehensive National Human

Rights Plan 2016–2025, emphasizing the protection of individuals’ rights.

60. France welcomed the progress made by Jordan in the areas of women’s rights, the

electoral system and the right to demonstrate. However, a number of laws and practices

remained that were restrictive on human rights.

61. Georgia welcomed the steps taken by Jordan to promote women’s rights and their

empowerment. It commended efforts to alleviate the situation of Syrian refugees and

encouraged Jordan to continue its efforts to ensure freedom of assembly.

62. Germany commended Jordan for its efforts, including the adoption of the

Comprehensive National Human Rights Plan and the opening of the first shelter for women

victims of violence. It expressed concerns over reports of torture and restrictions on

freedom of expression.

63. In response to the questions raised, the delegation highlighted the efforts made by

Jordan to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 5. The Government was committed to

addressing the wage gap.

64. Legislation on the death penalty was in line with national charters. The death penalty

was only used for the most serious crimes, it was not imposed on minors or pregnant

women and court-appointed lawyers were available in relevant cases.

65. Domestic workers were granted special protection. Recruitment processes were

governed by law and the Government could close offices that were in breach of human

rights law.

66. The Anti-Terrorism Law and the counter-extremism strategy were in line with

international standards, particularly the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy.

The national courts endeavoured to ensure a fair trial. For instance, administrative detention

could be appealed before a court, and children could no longer be arrested unless the

decision had been handed down by a court.

67. Jordan had taken steps to combat domestic violence. Procedures had been put in

place to protect children from hazardous labour and to prevent the employment of children

under the age of 16.

68. Correctional justice was central to the judicial system. Strengthening and ensuring

the independence of the judiciary was also important. International human rights standards

had been incorporated into training programmes for judges.

69. There was an unprecedented number of refugees in Jordan. Courts had been set up to

ensure access to justice for refugees, who were provided with legal advice, psychological

support, and education and relief services.

70. Greece commended the adoption of the Comprehensive National Human Rights

Plan (2016–2025), the abolition of the articles in the Criminal Code that had protected

perpetrators of crimes of sexual violence, and the appointment of the first female member

of the Judicial Council.

71. Honduras commended the adoption of the Comprehensive National Human Rights

Plan 2016–2025, the amendments made to the Law on the National Centre for Human

Rights, and the role played by Jordan in affirming a new paradigm for international

cooperation in response to humanitarian crises.

72. Hungary commended Jordan for its national policies, strategies and plans that were

in compliance with human rights principles, and for its adoption and implementation of the

Protection from Domestic Violence Act of 2017.

73. Iceland welcomed the efforts made to address domestic violence and to ensure the

requirement of free and informed consent for marriage and the political participation of

women. It also welcomed the efforts made to accommodate Syrian refugees and guarantee

their rights.

74. India appreciated the establishment of the Specialized Human Rights Training

Centre and the Strategic Plan for Education 2018–2022, and the amendments made to the

Criminal Code to protect women’s rights, prohibit forced marriage and provide appropriate

training to judges.

75. Indonesia acknowledged the strengthening of the Employment Act, the

establishment of the Comprehensive National Human Rights Plan 2016–2025, the efforts

made to implement the Sustainable Development Goals, and the development of the draft

national strategy for Jordanian women for 2020–2030.

76. Iraq welcomed the developments made by Jordan and its establishment of many

institutions in the area of promoting and protecting human rights.

77. Ireland encouraged Jordan to improve the legal status of women and children, to end

the male guardianship system in accordance with article 15 of the Convention on the

Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, and to eliminate the conditions

permitting child marriage.

78. Italy commended Jordan for adopting the Comprehensive National Human Rights

Plan 2016–2025, and for its efforts to promote and protect women’s rights and to end

forced marriage. It praised the leadership of the King shown through the “Aqaba process”

to combat radicalization and terrorism.

79. Kazakhstan commended Jordan for its adoption of the Comprehensive National

Human Rights Plan 2016–2025 and for its progress in the administration of justice,

combating trafficking in persons and promoting the rights of women, children and persons

with disabilities.

80. Kuwait commended Jordan for its commitment to promoting and protecting human

rights and for its efforts to implement the recommendations it had accepted from the second

review cycle. It called upon Jordan to promote legislation to protect women in employment.

81. The Lao People’s Democratic Republic welcomed the efforts made by Jordan in

promoting human rights, including its adoption of national policies, strategies and plans in

line with human rights principles and international standards. It urged Jordan to continue

promoting women’s rights through education and training.

82. Lebanon commended Jordan for its efforts to protect and promote human rights

despite the challenges it faced, especially the consequences of the Syrian crisis. It

appreciated the improvements made in many areas, especially the judiciary, employment,

public freedoms and women’s rights.

83. Libya commended Jordan for its progress in the area of human rights, for

implementing the recommendations from the second review cycle and for strengthening its

institutional framework.

84. Lithuania welcomed the steps taken by Jordan to consolidate its human rights

record, especially to protect women and increase citizens’ participation in the political

process.

85. Malaysia commended Jordan for promoting the rights and empowerment of women

and persons with disabilities, including by removing barriers to their employment and

participation in the public and political spheres, and for its zero-tolerance policy towards

violence against women.

86. Maldives commended Jordan for its efforts to provide protection and assistance to

over 645,000 officially registered refugees and to ensure educational enrolment for all

children, thereby reaching gender parity in primary education.

87. Malta welcomed the steps taken since the second review cycle to reform legislation

aimed at protecting the family and facilitating the reporting of cases of domestic violence.

88. Mauritania commended Jordan for accepting multiple recommendations from the

second review cycle, for strengthening its human rights framework, for its commitment to

guaranteeing fundamental freedoms and for its adoption of a road map for reform and

development.

89. Mauritius noted the adoption of the Comprehensive National Human Rights Plan

2016–2025 and the Plan for Implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals 2030. It

applauded the increase in the literacy rate following the introduction of compulsory

education until the tenth grade of school.

90. Mexico welcomed the adoption of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, which

prohibited discrimination against those persons. It also welcomed the repealing of article

308 of the Criminal Code, which had permitted leniency for perpetrators of sexual crimes.

91. Montenegro commended Jordan for strengthening its normative and institutional

human rights framework, ensuring equal access to education and achieving gender parity in

primary education. It called for the de facto moratorium on executions to be reinstated.

92. Morocco welcomed measures to promote human rights through the strengthening of

the judicial framework, reflected by the establishment of the Government Transparency

Unit, which promoted impartiality in anti-corruption efforts, and of the Office of the

Government Coordinator for Human Rights.

93. Myanmar acknowledged the efforts made by Jordan to fulfil the commitments it had

made following the second review cycle. It commended the steps taken to strengthen the

human rights institutional framework and the implementation of the Comprehensive

National Human Rights Plan 2016–2025.

94. Nepal welcomed the measures taken to ensure women’s participation in the political

system, including at the local level. It commended the adoption of legislation to protect

domestic workers and the consistent level of commitment shown by Jordan to protecting

and assisting refugees.

95. The Netherlands welcomed the progress made to protect women’s rights, but noted

that joint guardianship of children within a marriage was not yet guaranteed in legislation.

Domestic employment law did not cover agricultural workers, depriving them of their full

enjoyment of fair and acceptable work conditions.

96. Nigeria appreciated the efforts made by Jordan to reinforce the promotion and

protection of human rights and to develop its judicial institutions with a view to further

strengthening the rule of law. It also welcomed the measures taken to protect the rights of

migrant workers.

97. Norway commended Jordan on its progress since the second review cycle, especially

the repealing of article 308 of the Criminal Code. It remained concerned about women’s

rights, freedom of speech and access to basic legal guarantees in Jordan.

98. Oman expressed appreciation for the adoption of many measures, such as the

Comprehensive National Human Rights Plan 2016–2025, the National Plan for

Implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals 2030 and the second phase of the

National Strategy for Persons with Disabilities.

99. Pakistan expressed particular appreciation for the introduction of the second phase

of the National Strategy for Persons with Disabilities 2010–2015, the Implementation Plan

to Strengthen the Institutional Response to Domestic Violence Cases 2016–2018 and the

Jordanian National Strategy for the Elderly 2018–2022.

100. The Philippines commended Jordan on its Comprehensive National Human Rights

Plan (2016–2025), and welcomed measures to protect women from domestic violence. It

acknowledged the efforts made to combat human trafficking and to improve the regulations

governing the employment of migrant workers in the domestic service sector.

101. Portugal commended Jordan for its cooperation with the special procedure mandate

holders and for its adoption of the Comprehensive National Human Rights Plan (2016–

2025). It welcomed the amendments made to the Law on the National Centre for Human

Rights.

102. Qatar expressed appreciation for all of the efforts made in the legislative, executive

and judicial spheres to promote human rights and fundamental freedoms. It particularly

welcomed the measures taken to strengthen the judicial framework.

103. The Republic of Korea welcomed the efforts made by Jordan to accommodate

refugees. It appreciated its efforts to achieve gender equality, including through the

increased participation of women in various branches of the Government.

104. Romania noted with satisfaction the efforts made to promote a culture of human

rights and to promote and protect the rights of women and children. It encouraged Jordan to

continue consolidating its human rights record.

105. The Russian Federation welcomed the adoption of the Comprehensive National

Human Rights Plan. It called upon Jordan to pay more attention to victims of domestic

violence. It commended its efforts to protect refugees and noted the measures taken to

prevent discrimination against persons of non-Jordanian origin.

106. Saudi Arabia welcomed the efforts made to combat poverty and unemployment, and

the adoption of the Comprehensive National Human Rights Plan 2016–2025 and the

Programme for the Promotion of Economic and Social Productivity.

107. Senegal welcomed the efforts made to promote a culture of human rights among

security officials and the police through training programmes and workshops, and to

increase awareness of human rights among schoolchildren and university students.

108. Serbia welcomed the adoption of legal measures aimed at strengthening the

institutional framework for the respect of human rights and fundamental freedoms, and the

establishment of national institutions and departments across several ministries to promote

human rights.

109. Singapore welcomed the establishment of the Ministerial Committee for the

Empowerment of Women and the repealing of article 308 of the Criminal Code, which had

exempted rapists from punishment if they married their victims.

110. Slovakia welcomed the important steps taken by Jordan to strengthen its national

human rights framework. It expressed concern about restrictions on freedom of expression

and opinion and about the continued imposition of death sentences.

111. Slovenia commended the positive changes that had been made by Jordan since the

previous review cycle, particularly regarding the protection of women’s rights. It expressed

concern over child marriage and over the Personal Status Law.

112. Spain commended Jordan for its reform of the Criminal Code. However, it

highlighted that Jordan had not yet ratified the Second Optional Protocol to the

International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death

penalty, and expressed concern about restrictions on freedom of expression.

113. Sri Lanka expressed appreciation for the decision taken by Jordan to open its border

to Syrian refugees who were seeking protection. It noted the steps taken to strengthen the

national human rights framework.

114. The State of Palestine commended the steps taken by Jordan to promote human

rights, including its adoption of the Comprehensive National Human Rights Plan 2016–

2025. It encouraged Jordan to continue its efforts to combat human trafficking.

115. The Sudan commended Jordan for its positive engagement with the review process.

It welcomed its efforts to implement “Jordan 2025: a National Strategy and Vision” and the

plans adopted in the field of human rights, in particular to improve transparency, combat

corruption and guarantee freedom of expression.

116. Sweden acknowledged some positive development in the area of media legislation,

but expressed concern about the ambiguity of definitions and the risk of overly broad

interpretations. It stated that many challenges remained for the advancement of gender

equality.

117. Switzerland expressed concern over restrictions on freedom of assembly and over

recent executions. It welcomed the reforms aimed at limiting temporary detention and

called for concrete measures to ensure the protection of all workers.

118. Thailand commended the launch of the Comprehensive National Human Rights Plan

and the National Plan for Implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals. It

applauded the repealing of the section of the Criminal Code that had exempted perpetrators

of sexual assault from punishment if they married their victims.

119. Tunisia thanked Jordan for the information contained in its national report, which

attested to its progress made in the field of human rights. It welcomed the inclusive

approach taken by Jordan in the preparation of its national report.

120. Turkey welcomed the positive developments made in the field of women’s rights,

including the repealing of article 308 of the Criminal Code, which had allowed those

accused of rape to avoid punishment if they married their victims.

121. Turkmenistan commended Jordan for its adoption of national policies, strategies and

plans aimed at reaching the required international human rights standards, highlighting its

efforts to establish new institutions and bodies to protect and uphold human rights.

122. Uganda expressed appreciation for the amendments made to the Criminal Code to

protect women against rape. It encouraged Jordan to enhance its efforts to increase the

participation of women in positions of leadership and decision-making.

123. Ukraine recognized the progress made by Jordan in improving its human rights

situation, including through the implementation of the recommendations it had accepted

during the second review cycle, specifically in relation to the eradication of torture, and to

persons with disabilities and victims of human trafficking.

124. The United Arab Emirates welcomed the adoption of a number of national

strategies, including the Comprehensive National Human Rights Plan 2016–2025, the

Strategic Plan for Education 2018–2022 and the draft national strategy for Jordanian

women 2020–2030.

125. The United Kingdom welcomed the positive steps taken by Jordan towards

implementing the recommendations from previous review cycles and commended its long-

standing hospitality, having hosted over 650,000 registered Syrian refugees since 2011.

126. The United States remained concerned by a variety of laws that restricted

fundamental freedoms and had led to the arrest and detention of journalists, civil society

activists and social media users.

127. Uruguay welcomed the efforts made by Jordan to increase the participation of

women in the public sphere, and the recent amendment to the Criminal Code to protect

victims of rape.

128. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela observed that Jordan had strengthened its

human rights framework through developing strategies to promote the protection of human

rights, including the project for the empowerment of women in the public sector and the

Plan for Implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals 2030.

129. Brazil encouraged Jordan to reinforce the protection of human rights online, by

ensuring that its definition of hate speech did not restrict freedom of expression and that

surveillance activities respected the right to privacy. It commended the amendments made

to the Criminal Code and the Protection from Domestic Violence Act.

130. The delegation reiterated that the definition of torture in Jordan was in line with the

definition under the Convention against Torture, and that torture was considered a crime if

it led to grave injury or disease. In 2014, national legislation had been amended to align

detention standards with international norms.

131. Jordan was committed to preventing the exploitation of children. It had also adopted

measures relating to the freedom of trade unions and had taken into account the right of

migrants to work.

132. In 2014, Jordan had adopted a decision to provide migrant children with access to

education, health care and the labour market, and those children had been given identity

cards. A special commission had also been set up to provide alternative housing for persons

with disabilities.

133. The Jordanian National Commission for Women had proposed amendments to the

labour code, and as a result parental leave was now granted in Jordan and children enjoyed

more benefits. The participation of women in the public sphere was increasing and the

Government was seeking to amend curricula to increase the number of women in leadership

positions.

134. The delegation noted that the law on cybercrime needed to be amended and brought

into line with international standards.

II. Conclusions and/or recommendations

135. The recommendations formulated during the interactive dialogue/listed below

have been examined by Jordan and enjoy the support of Jordan:

135.1 Pursue efforts to follow up on the implementation of the

Comprehensive National Human Rights Plan (Bahrain);

135.2 Provide the necessary support to the Office of the Government

Coordinator for Human Rights in order to continue interaction with all

stakeholders in the field of human rights (Bahrain);

135.3 Continue promoting the rights of the people through national

strategies, including by adopting the national strategy for the prevention of

human trafficking (Brunei Darussalam);

135.4 Continue working on the effective implementation of the

Comprehensive National Human Rights Plan until 2025, with the broad

participation of society (Cuba);

135.5 Continue to support and strengthen the institutional framework for

the respect of human rights and fundamental freedoms (Egypt);

135.6 Strengthen the legal framework for the protection of women against

domestic violence (Albania);

135.7 Proceed with implementation of the executive plan on raising

awareness of the principles of the rule of law, equality and citizenship

(Georgia);

135.8 Continue providing human rights educational programmes for law

enforcement officers on the issue of combating torture and on respect for

human rights, and ensure that all allegations of torture are promptly,

thoroughly and independently investigated (Greece);

135.9 Recognize the important work of human rights defenders facing

discrimination or marginalization and ensure effective protection against the

threats and violence they face (Iceland);

135.10 Strengthen effective implementation of its legal framework for the

protection of women (India);

136.11 Continue to implement the Comprehensive National Human Rights

Plan 2016–2025 and address existing challenges, with the participation of all

sections of Jordanian society (Indonesia);

135.12 Continue efforts to implement the amendments to the labour code

which were adopted by the Council of Ministers of Jordan in 2010 and broaden

the legal assistance fund (Iraq);

135.13 Continue efforts to take the necessary measures to implement

provisions on community penalties and alternative penalties (Kuwait);

135.14 Increase legislation protecting women in the labour market (Kuwait);

135.15 Continue disseminating human rights principles and concepts in

detention and pre-detention centres as well as in rehabilitation centres

(Lebanon);

135.16 Amend the labour law to protect the rights of agricultural workers,

including legal safeguards to ensure decent working conditions (Netherlands);

135.17 Continue to strengthen its legal and institutional frameworks, with a

view to further ensuring the promotion and protection of the rights of migrant

workers, especially domestic workers (Nigeria);

135.18 Strengthen punishment for perpetrators of trafficking crimes, in

particular when the victim is a child or a woman, to contribute to their

protection (Pakistan);

135.19 Continue the zero-tolerance policy against human trafficking, and

strengthen measures to address various forms of trafficking, including new

trends (Philippines);

135.20 Create a national mechanism for implementation, reporting and

follow-up on the recommendations from the universal periodic review, the

treaty bodies and the special procedures of the Human Rights Council

(Portugal);

135.21 Pursue efforts to establish a national system of human rights

institutions (Russian Federation);

135.22 Accelerate efforts to adopt alternative measures to deprivation of

liberty in the juvenile justice system (Saudi Arabia);

135.23 Support regional human rights training in the regional centres of the

Public Security Directorate (Saudi Arabia);

135.24 Finalize the draft national strategy for Jordanian women (2020–2030)

and the draft national strategy for the prevention of human trafficking (2018–

2021) (Senegal);

135.25 Allocate sufficient resources to ensure the effective implementation of

the National Strategy for Women once it has been updated (Singapore);

135.26 Review the Press and Publications Act in order to fully guarantee the

right to freedom of expression (Spain);

135.27 Amend article 72 of the labour law to make it more comprehensive in

order to allow for women to participate in the workforce and encourage

childcare to be a shared responsibility between both parents (Sweden);

135.28 Strengthen the relevant legal frameworks to further protect women

against all forms of violence, including domestic violence, and ensure adequate

support and redress to victims (Thailand);

135.29 Strengthen the legal assistance system for stakeholders (Tunisia);

135.30 Continue reviewing its legal framework for the protection of women

against gender-based violence and domestic violence (Turkey);

135.31 Consider the elaboration of a comprehensive strategy to modify and

eliminate all attitudes and stereotypes that discriminate against women

(Turkey);

135.32 Continue the current political reform process through the adoption of

relevant road maps for development to respect human rights and fundamental

freedoms (Turkmenistan);

135.33 Take further measures to promote and protect the rights of women,

children and persons with disabilities through developing or improving

national strategies (Turkmenistan);

135.34 Continue efforts to campaign against gender-based violence and to

raise awareness in local communities about the importance of ending child

marriage (Uganda);

135.35 Continue to strengthen the institutional capacity of the Jordanian

National Committee for Women’s Affairs to enable it to carry out its mandate

(Uganda);

135.36 Ensure effective protection of the rights of the child through

developing a State strategy and national legislation (Ukraine);

135.37 Consider including measures aimed at ensuring increased efficiency

(Azerbaijan);

135.38 Engage in further collaboration to continue the implementation of the

Comprehensive National Human Rights Plan for 2016–2025 (Oman);

135.39 Adopt a global strategy to eliminate discrimination in law and in

practice against marginalized and disadvantaged children (Congo);

135.40 Take measures to end the discriminatory classification of children on

any grounds and discrimination against all groups of children in marginalized

or disadvantaged situations (Fiji);

135.41 Consider a national strategy to eliminate all forms of discrimination

against all groups of children in marginalized and disadvantaged situations

(India);

135.42 Enhance efforts to eradicate all forms of discrimination, in particular

against women, including in the Criminal Code (Italy);

135.43 Continue efforts to achieve gender equality and equal opportunities

in the labour market (Malaysia);

135.44 Tackle the forms of discrimination and inequality still affecting

women and children (Romania);

135.45 Pursue efforts to combat discrimination against persons of non-

Jordanian origin and migrant workers (Russian Federation);

135.46 Continue the practice of consulting with civil society on the

implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (Belarus);

135.47 Strengthen efforts to adopt policies and programmes in relation to

climate change and environmental protection (Fiji);

135.48 Encourage labour-intensive production sectors to alleviate

unemployment and create more job opportunities (India);

135.49 Make more efforts to implement the Sustainable Development Goals

(State of Palestine);

135.50 Provide technical and financial resources to implement the provisions

of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (Oman);

135.51 Continue its efforts aimed at improving detention environments and

its adaptation to international standards (Georgia);

135.52 Ensure that the prohibition of torture is absolute and non-derogable,

in accordance with article 2 (2) of the Convention against Torture (Hungary);

135.53 Adopt measures to prevent and fight episodes of torture (Italy);

135.54 Step up training and capacity-building of law enforcement personnel

with respect to the initial stages of investigation and a fair trial (China);

135.55 Continue to disseminate a culture of human rights and promote fair

trial guarantees to competent law enforcement authorities (Egypt);

135.56 Limit the use of administrative detention and ensure that judgments

are held within a reasonable period of time (France);

135.57 Step up specialized training for judges (Algeria);

135.58 Continue working on building judicial capacities, including the

training of judges, and take the necessary measures to use modern technologies

in judicial proceedings (Lebanon);

135.59 Promote specialization in the legal profession and its institutions

(Morocco);

135.60 Reinforce the role of judicial inspection (Oman);

135.61 Strengthen the independence of the judiciary by improving the work

of the general secretariat of the Judicial Council (Qatar);

135.62 Organize specialized training courses for public prosecutors and

sensitize them to other practices in other countries, to implement human rights

standards and make use of them in referring cases involving torture, juveniles

and human trafficking to the specialized courts (Qatar);

135.63 Allocate sufficient resources to public prosecutors for the effective

investigation of allegations of torture (Republic of Korea);

135.64 Enhance the use of alternatives to pretrial detention (Sudan);

135.65 Continue efforts to train detention centre personnel on the provisions

of international conventions and international standards relating to detention

centres (United Arab Emirates);

135.66 Strengthen programmes aimed at building capacity for judges,

prosecutors, lawyers and officials responsible for compliance with the law, in

application of the standards of international organizations relating to women’s

rights (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);

135.67 Continue the policy of maintaining an atmosphere of tolerance and

respect for religious diversity (Belarus);

135.68 Ensure that all surveillance of communications is conducted with

respect for the right to privacy and in compliance with Jordan’s human rights

obligations (Iceland);

135.69 Promote dialogue with civil society organizations, human rights

defenders and other relevant stakeholders in order to reform current

legislation on freedom of expression (Italy);

135.70 Redouble efforts and commitments for the promotion and protection

of human rights and fundamental freedoms (Nigeria);

135.71 Ensure that all domestic legislation is in compliance with the

International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, particularly in relation to

the right to freedom of expression (Norway);

135.72 Ensure a safe and enabling environment for journalists and media

workers, and ensure freedom of the media and a space for civil society free

from interference, threats and intimidation (Slovakia);

135.73 Continue efforts to combat human trafficking, especially in the case

of migrant workers (Bangladesh);

135.74 Strengthen measures to safeguard the rights of foreign female

domestic workers (Bangladesh);

135.75 Step up efforts to combat trafficking, particularly in women and

children from the migrant community, refugees and asylum seekers, and

improve the relevant legislation and its application (Belarus);

135.76 Ensure effective protection of foreign domestic workers (Congo);

135.77 Continue efforts to combat trafficking in persons by, inter alia,

strengthening its preventive measures (Greece);

135.78 Strengthen its actions to prevent and combat all forms of violence

against women and girls, trafficking in persons and harmful practices such as

early marriage (Honduras);

135.79 Step up efforts nationally to combat child labour and trafficking in

persons (Algeria);

135.80 Promote efforts to counter human trafficking, especially in women

and girls (Iraq);

135.81 Accelerate its efforts to combat trafficking in persons and various

forms of labour exploitation of non-Jordanians living in the territory, especially

women and children (Myanmar);

135.82 Continue to fight human trafficking (Serbia);

135.83 Continue to accelerate efforts to eliminate child labour, in particular

girls working as domestic workers, ensuring that legal action is taken against

perpetrators (Sri Lanka);

135.84 Continue to prevent trafficking in women and girls with regular

monitoring (Sri Lanka);

135.85 Strengthen its labour protection with an emphasis on migrant

workers, domestic workers and children, especially by increasing their access to

health services and education and improving working conditions in line with

international standards (Thailand);

135.86 Continue its efforts to improve health-care coverage for the

population (Colombia);

135.87 Continue efforts to improve the country’s health-care system,

especially for children (Maldives);

135.88 Take the necessary measures for further improvement of access to

education in terms of quality and inclusiveness (Afghanistan);

135.89 Continue implementing measures for the development of the

education system, including an extension of literacy programmes and bearing

in mind the principle of equality (Cuba);

135.90 Continue efforts to take all necessary measures to improve access to

education for children in rural and remote areas, and ensure that no child is

deprived of education services (Mauritius);

135.91 Take immediate measures for the protection of women’s rights,

including strengthening laws to address violence against women (Botswana);

135.92 Continue efforts to empower women in the country in line with its

national strategy and the Sustainable Development Goals (Brunei Darussalam);

135.93 Continue implementation of initiatives to encourage the

empowerment of women and to facilitate a higher proportion of women in

managerial positions in public institutions and private businesses (Bulgaria);

135.94 Take further steps to remove the persisting barriers to women’s

access to justice (Albania);

135.95 Take further steps to address discrimination against women, with a

particular focus on women’s access to justice and reducing violence against

women (Fiji);

135.96 Continue to advance the role of women in economic and political life,

including by increasing their representation in the parliament (Indonesia);

135.97 Promote efforts towards raising awareness and education among

different social groups, especially women and workers (Iraq);

135.98 Take further steps to promote gender equality and women’s

empowerment (Kazakhstan);

135.99 Continue efforts to promote the rights of women through education

and training programmes (Lao People’s Democratic Republic);

135.100 Amend the criminal procedures to guarantee that a detained person

is medically assessed before admission to a detention centre (Germany);

135.101 Continue to conduct awareness-raising campaigns to address violence

against women (Malta);

135.102 Pursue measures to ensure appropriate representation of women in

political life (Nepal);

135.103 Fully implement all measures to prevent any and all violence against

women and girls and bring the perpetrators of such violence to justice

(Australia);

135.104 Continue efforts to combat violence against women and to ensure

gender parity (Tunisia);

135.105 Establish a mechanism to implement the recommendations of the

Special Rapporteur on violence against women, its causes and consequences

(United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);

135.106 Continue its efforts to raise awareness among women of their rights

(Azerbaijan);

135.107 Include sections on women’s rights and gender equality in the

curriculum at all levels of education (Azerbaijan);

135.108 Redouble efforts to protect women and girls from violence and

discrimination (Uruguay);

135.109 Continue active efforts in the area of human rights (Kazakhstan);

135.110 Continue implementing the system of aftercare for juveniles to ensure

that there is no return to or repetition of offending (Yemen);

135.111 Step up efforts aimed at ending and discouraging child labour,

including enactment and enforcement of legislation on the minimum age for

employment (Botswana);

135.112 Develop legal mechanisms to protect children and continue efforts to

combat child labour (Malaysia);

135.113 Continue efforts to raise awareness to prevent child marriage

(Maldives);

135.114 Enforce more effective measures to tackle the issue of early and

forced marriage, especially among refugee communities (Myanmar);

135.115 Increase measures to ensure that all refugee children have access to

education and ensure the protection of refugee children from labour

exploitation (Argentina);

135.116 Continue focusing on the situation of the less fortunate groups of the

Dom community and facilitate their access to services and contribute to the

improvement of their living conditions and their integration in society (Yemen);

135.117 Continue strengthening its efforts in the promotion and protection of

the rights of elderly persons and persons with disabilities (Bulgaria);

135.118 Actively seek support in technical assistance and capacity-building to

implement the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act of 2017 (China);

135.119 Continue to improve the living standards and conditions of persons

with disabilities, especially children with disabilities, to ensure that their basic

needs are met (Lao People’s Democratic Republic);

135.120 Continue to take measures to improve access for persons with

disabilities to public facilities and to create modes of transport for use by

persons with disabilities, and continue its sincere quest to consolidate the

human rights system (Libya);

135.121 Strengthen the implementation of necessary measures for disabled

students by creating accessible conditions in educational institutions in order to

achieve greater inclusion in Jordanian society (Angola);

135.122 Continue efforts to promote the organization of programmes to

enhance the independence of persons with special needs (Morocco);

135.123 Pursue efforts to promote the participation and empowerment of

persons with disabilities in the labour market by amending legislation and

creating an appropriate working environment for them (Pakistan);

135.124 Adopt measures to combat violence, abuse and neglect of persons

with psychosocial disabilities and mental health conditions, in particular those

living in “shelters”, and respect their autonomy and free and informed consent

while promoting their inclusion in the community and combating

institutionalization (Portugal);

135.125 Implement the provisions of the new law to improve the living

conditions of persons with disabilities (Senegal);

135.126 Pursue measures aimed at improving the situation of people with

disabilities, in particular on their social inclusion (Serbia);

135.127 Continue to implement measures to promote the inclusion of persons

with disabilities, particularly in educational institutions (Singapore);

135.128 Take measures to implement the national plan to integrate persons

with disabilities in educational institutions and allocate the necessary budget to

that plan (Sudan);

135.129 Continue efforts to enact labour legislation that protects migrants

and governs the work of employment agencies (State of Palestine);

135.130 Continue efforts to protect migrant workers by creating a healthy

and favourable environment through amending legislation to strengthen the

inspection of establishments (Tunisia);

135.131 Strengthen legal protection for migrant workers by increasing labour

inspections and public sector training, prosecuting employers who confiscate

employees’ passports and bringing penalties for sex trafficking crimes into line

with other serious crimes (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern

Ireland).

136. The following recommendations will be examined by Jordan, which will

provide responses in due time, but no later than the fortieth session of the Human

Rights Council:

136.1 Define in law the crime of torture in accordance with article 1 of the

Convention against Torture, with appropriate punishment attached to it

(Chile);

136.2 Amend laws that impede freedom of expression and information

(France);

136.3 Expand the authority and available resources of the National Centre

for Human Rights, the national human rights institution (Republic of Korea);

136.4 Modify article 208 of the Criminal Code so that torture is categorized

as a serious crime instead of a minor crime (Spain);

136.5 Revise and specify the definition of incitement of hatred in the

amended 2011 law on cybercrime (Sweden);

136.6 Form a committee of independent experts to consider amendments to

media-related legislation and institutions (Sweden);

136.7 Adopt comprehensive national legislation to prohibit direct and

indirect racial discrimination, in accordance with the International Convention

on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, including all

prohibited grounds of discrimination under article 1 (Côte d’Ivoire);

136.8 Pursue efforts to prevent torture, including by reviewing the

Criminal Code (Republic of Korea);

136.9 Increase the number of shelters for victims of gender-based violence

and honour crimes (Spain);

136.10 Limit the use of administrative detention, respecting the rights of

prisoners as specified in article 9 of the International Covenant on Civil and

Political Rights (Ireland);

136.11 Consider revising the use of administrative detention and take

measures to guarantee access to legal assistance (Italy);

136.12 Recognize the need to adopt a definition of torture in keeping with

article 1 of the Convention against Torture (Mexico);

136.13 Amend the Anti-Terrorism Law to bring it into line with the

International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Belgium);

136.14 Guarantee freedom of expression and halt the detention of all writers,

journalists and website editors based on charges related to freedom of

expression, and abolish the Criminal Code articles which place impermissible

restrictions on freedom of expression both offline and online (Czechia);

136.15 Enable unrestricted access to the Internet for all members of society

by ensuring cybersecurity and the safe flow of information, without violating

freedom of expression or the right to privacy (Estonia);

136.16 Facilitate the creation and operation of civil society organizations by

amending the law of societies in accordance with the requirements of the

International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, by limiting State

interference, in particular restrictions on funding, and by ensuring that any

such interference is exercised in an accountable and transparent way

(Germany);

136.17 Review its legislation and practices with the aim of ensuring that all

persons and civil society actors, including human rights defenders and

journalists, can freely exercise their rights to freedom of expression, association

and peaceful assembly, both online and offline, as provided for by international

human rights law (Lithuania);

136.18 Re-evaluate the recent amendments to the Press and Publications

Act, the law on cybercrime and the Criminal Code to ensure that legislation

and practice are in conformity with international human rights law and

standards, in particular the right to freedom of expression under article 19 of

the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Austria);

136.19 Amend the labour code to align it with international labour

standards, including allowing foreign workers to form and head trade unions

(United States of America);

136.20 Continue to ensure effective access to justice for women migrant

domestic workers, including by guaranteeing their safety and residence, while

legal proceedings are under way (Indonesia);

136.21 Deepen the measures to guarantee the principle of non-refoulement

(Argentina).

137. The recommendations formulated during the interactive dialogue/listed below

have been examined by Jordan and have been noted by Jordan:

137.1 Ratify other international human rights legal instruments to which

Jordan is not yet a party (Angola);

137.2 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and

Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (Denmark)

(Estonia) (Chile) (Ukraine) (Honduras) (Spain);

137.3 Ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons

from Enforced Disappearance (Montenegro); Consider ratifying the

International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced

Disappearance (Sri Lanka);

137.4 Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

Civil and Political Rights (Honduras); Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to

the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition

of the death penalty (Croatia); Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the

International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of

the death penalty (Montenegro);

137.5 Pursue efforts to refrain from using the death penalty and further

reduce the number of capital crimes, with a view to abolishing the death

penalty (Slovakia);

137.6 Establish a moratorium on the death penalty as a step towards its

complete abolition and accede to the Second Optional Protocol to the

International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Australia);

137.7 Re-establish the moratorium on the death penalty (Chile); Consider

the adoption of a moratorium on the death penalty (Italy);

137.8 Establish an official moratorium on the death penalty and revise the

laws that call for its mandatory imposition or its application for crimes other

than the “most serious crimes” (Brazil);

137.9 Reinstate the moratorium on the death penalty, as a step towards its

abolition (Albania); Reinstate its moratorium on the death penalty with a view

to its complete abolition (Fiji); Restore its moratorium on the application of the

death penalty and take the necessary steps for its definitive abolition

(Honduras); Establish a moratorium on executions and commute all existing

death sentences for the full abolition of the death penalty (Iceland); Establish a

moratorium on the application of the death penalty with a view to abolishing it

(Lithuania); Restore the moratorium on the death penalty with a view to its

abolition (Mexico); Following our recommendations in 2013, take the necessary

measures to remove the death penalty from the Jordanian legal framework

(Argentina); Abolish the death penalty (Norway); Re-establish a de facto

moratorium on the death penalty with a view to its abolition (Portugal);

Restore the moratorium on the implementation of the death penalty as a first

step towards its abolition (Spain); Reinstate a moratorium as a first step

towards the abolition of the death penalty (Austria); Establish a moratorium on

the abolition of the death penalty (Switzerland); Abolish the death penalty,

restore without delay the moratorium on executions and ratify the Second

Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights

(France);

137.10 Consider ratifying the Second Optional Protocol to the International

Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death

penalty, while also establishing a de facto moratorium (Uruguay);

137.11 Consider the possibility of restoring the moratorium on the death

penalty and joining the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant

on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty

(Colombia); Reinstate a moratorium on the death penalty and ultimately ratify

the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and

Political Rights (Estonia);

137.12 Ratify the first Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on

Civil and Political Rights (Honduras);

137.13 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of

All Forms of Discrimination against Women (Denmark); Ratify the Optional

Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination

against Women (Colombia);

137.14 Support more effective implementation of the provisions of the

Convention against Torture, submit its pending reports to the Committee

against Torture, accede to the Optional Protocol to the Convention against

Torture and establish its national preventive mechanism accordingly (Czechia);

137.15 Consider acceding to the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the

Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (Sri Lanka);

137.16 Consider acceding to the Optional Protocol to the Convention against

Torture (Sri Lanka);

137.17 Ratify the human rights instruments to which it is not yet a party, in

particular the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All

Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (Honduras);

137.18 Ratify the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of

All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (Bangladesh);

137.19 Ratify the 1954 Convention relating to the Status of Stateless Persons

and the 1961 Convention on the Reduction of Statelessness (Honduras) (Côte

d’Ivoire);

137.20 Ratify, without any reservations, the Agreement on the Privileges and

Immunities of the International Criminal Court (Norway);

137.21 Consider ratifying the International Convention on the Protection of

the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families

(Philippines) (Sri Lanka);

137.22 Pursue full implementation of the Convention against Torture and

consider acceding to the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture

(Romania);

137.23 Ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and

officially and publicly condemn all acts of torture and ill-treatment committed

by the public authorities; classify torture as a criminal offence, assign

jurisdiction over all cases to regular courts and provide protection and

compensation to victims (Austria);

137.24 Ratify the Domestic Workers Convention, 2011 (No. 189) of the

International Labour Organization (Switzerland);

137.25 Strengthen legislation to protect children and girls from child

marriage and amend article 10 of the Personal Status Law to remove all

provisions that allow the authorization and the practice of child marriage

(Belgium);

137.26 Respect journalists’ right to freedom of expression by restricting the

trial of journalists for “publications crimes” stipulated in the Criminal Code to

civilian courts, and by amending article 11 of the cybercrime law, to narrow the

definition of hate speech (Canada);

137.27 Amend article 292 of the Criminal Code to include marital rape and

eliminate attenuating circumstances for honour crimes (Chile);

137.28 Remove all exceptional conditions from legislation that allow the

authorization of child marriage (Croatia);

137.29 Repeal article 340 of the Criminal Code and ensure that the

definition of rape meets international standards, and repeal article 10 (b) of the

Personal Status Law that enables derogation from the prohibition of child

marriage (France);

137.30 Amend the Personal Status Law to remove conditions that allow child

marriage and to eliminate the recognition of legal guardians of adult women

(Ireland);

137.31 Accelerate efforts to repeal all remaining discriminatory provisions

to end male guardianship in marriage and protective custody, especially article

185 of the Personal Status Law, and amend article 223 of that law in order to

give women and men joint guardianship of their children (Netherlands);

137.32 Repeal the Crime Prevention Act (Act No. 7 of 1954) (Australia);

137.33 Amend the Personal Status Law to remove all exceptional conditions

that allow the authorization and practice of child marriage (Slovenia);

137.34 Amend the Personal Status Law to give women and men joint

guardianship of their children (Slovenia);

137.35 Continue to make progress in the reform of the Criminal Code in

order to abolish reduced sentences for adultery-related murders (Spain);

137.36 Abolish the legal guardianship system of women and children

contained in the Personal Status Law (Spain);

137.37 Further advance the amendments of the Act on Public Gatherings by

creating an independent bureau to receive complaints regarding meetings and

gatherings that have been shut down without explanation (Sweden);

137.38 Repeal the law on associations in order to streamline the

administrative processes which restrict the activities and the funding of civil

society organizations (Switzerland);

137.39 Repeal the 1954 Crime Prevention Act and guarantee to detainees the

right to mount a legal challenge to their detention (Switzerland);

137.40 Initiate a review of the current legislation relating to child marriage

and guardianship and take action to comprehensively address its shortcomings

from a standpoint of international standards on women’s rights (Ukraine);

137.41 Continue with cooperation efforts for capacity-building of the Office

of the Government Coordinator for Human Rights, representing ministries,

institutions and official bodies, the Government and security forces, which has

been in place since 2014 (United Arab Emirates);

137.42 Legislate to penalize discrimination, including on the basis of gender,

race, age, disability, religion or belief, and sexual orientation (United Kingdom

of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);

137.43 Remove the definition of “hate speech” from the proposed

amendments to the cybercrime law and eliminate criminal penalties for

defamation in the proposed amendments to be more in line with international

human rights law (United States of America);

137.44 Guarantee women equal responsibilities to their husbands in the

education of their children by amending article 223 of the Personal Status Law

(Belgium);

137.45 Provide a legal basis for equality between men and women by

amending article 6 of the Constitution to ban explicitly discrimination based on

gender, and lift its reservations to articles 9 and 16 of the Convention on the

Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (Canada);

137.46 Introduce further reforms to ensure Jordanian women have the same

rights as Jordanian men, including passing on their nationality to their children

as Jordanian men can, thus combating gender inequality while ensuring respect

for children’s rights (Cyprus);

137.47 Ensure full implementation of the Convention on the Elimination of

All Forms of Discrimination against Women and remove reservations to article

9 (Czechia);

137.48 Grant the same rights to women as to men in the transmission of

nationality to children (France);

137.49 Allow all Jordanian women to pass on their citizenship to their

children and spouses on an equal basis with Jordanian men (Hungary);

137.50 Continue its efforts for gender equality and allow Jordanian women

to pass on their citizenship to their children and spouses (Iceland);

137.51 Implement reforms to ensure that Jordanian women can transmit

nationality to their children and spouses on an equal footing with men

(Mexico);

137.52 Following our recommendations in 2013, take the necessary measures

to investigate and punish discriminatory practices against women and girls,

such as early marriage or honour crimes (Argentina);

137.53 Take immediate measures to stop mistreatment in custody; amend

article 208 (2) of the Criminal Code so the definition of torture aligns with the

Convention against Torture; cease trying civilians in military courts; create an

independent oversight body to address allegations of abuse by security forces

(Canada);

137.54 Limit resorting to the State Security Court for criminal cases falling

within the jurisdiction of other competent courts (France);

137.55 Guarantee that every person that is arrested has access to legal

representation and legal aid, from the moment of arrest, regardless of the

alleged crime, promptly implement all relevant regulations in this regard, and

ensure civilian prosecutors investigate all allegations of abuse in detention

(Germany);

137.56 Grant civilian prosecutors jurisdiction over allegations of abuse of

detainees and allow them to carry out effective investigations, including by

having private meetings with prisoners, and conduct regular inspections of

prisons (Hungary);

137.57 End the use of administrative detention and introduce legislation to

guarantee access to a lawyer from the point of arrest (Norway);

137.58 Refer cases of alleged torture by security officials to independent civil

courts rather than police courts, which fall under the authority of the Ministry

of the Interior (United States of America);

137.59 Work towards withdrawal of its reservations to the Convention on

the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (Estonia);

137.60 Withdraw its reservation to article 9 (2) of the Convention on the

Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and amend the

Law on Nationality so that Jordanian women may pass on their citizenship to

their children on an equal basis with Jordanian men, and end the

discrimination against all non-citizen children of Jordanian women (Germany);

137.61 Further strengthen its legislation to ensure respect for women’s and

girls’ human rights and to fully outlaw gender-based discrimination

(Lithuania);

137.62 Create legislative and social conditions to allow the de facto

empowerment of Jordanian women and launch awareness campaigns on

women’s rights (Angola);

137.63 Withdraw all its reservations to the Convention on the Elimination of

All Forms of Discrimination against Women and amend legislation to bring it

into compliance with the Convention, including by amending provisions of the

Personal Status Law and the Law on Nationality (Norway);

137.64 Take effective steps to advance women’s rights, namely with regard

to their transmission of citizenship to their children or spouses (Portugal);

137.65 Remove all remaining discriminatory provisions in its national

legislation to ensure consistency with the provisions of the Convention on the

Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (Australia);

137.66 Consider withdrawing its reservations to articles 9 and 16 of the

Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women

(Sri Lanka);

137.67 Implement the recommendations made by the Committee on the

Elimination of Discrimination against Women in 2017, in particular by

amending provisions in the Personal Status Law concerning guardianship and

preventing the practice of early or child marriage in all groups of society

(Austria);

137.68 Ensure that women and girls can exercise their sexual and

reproductive rights (Uruguay);

137.69 Adopt measures to guarantee that Jordanian women can fully enjoy

their civil rights, including by allowing them to pass on their citizenship to their

children on an equal basis with men (Brazil);

137.70 Intensify its efforts to fully eliminate child, early and forced marriage

(Lithuania);

137.71 Take all necessary measures to ensure the full implementation of the

Convention on the Rights of the Child and its Optional Protocols, including

ratification of the Optional Protocol on a communications procedure

(Slovakia);

137.72 Treat migrant workers and members of their families in accordance

with international human rights standards (Afghanistan);

137.73 Continue its efforts for social inclusion and adequate welfare support

for migrants, refugees and asylum seekers (Myanmar);

137.74 Continue reform measures to ensure the welfare of all migrant

workers (Nepal).

138. All conclusions and/or recommendations contained in the present report reflect

the position of the submitting State(s) and/or the State under review. They should not

be construed as endorsed by the Working Group as a whole.

Annex

Composition of the delegation

The delegation of Jordan was headed by H.E. Mr. Bassel Al TARAWNEH, General

Government Coordinator for Human Rights and composed of the following members:

• H.E. Ambassador Saja MAJALI, Permanent Representative, Permanent Mission of

Jordan;

• Mr. Mohammed KHREISAT, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates;

• Mr. Ayeche AL AWAMLEH, Ministry of Social Development;

• Mrs. Ghadeer ATTIEH, Ministry of Labour;

• Mr. Zeid AL TALAFIH, Ministry of Justice;

• Lt. Col. Sameh AL HIDYANE, Public Security Directorate;

• Captain Aia’a BANI FAWAZ, Military Judge;

• Judge Mansoor AL TAWALBEH, Supreme Judge Department;

• Judge Ali ALMUSEIMI, Director of Planning and Training Unit, Ministry of

Justice;

• Mrs. Amal HADADDIN, The Jordanian National Commission for Women;

• Mr. Amjad SHAMOUT, Civil Society Representative;

• Mrs. Basma AL AWAM LEH, Civil Society Representative.