Crime in Jordan
Jordan is generally regarded as one of the safer countries in the Middle East, with a relatively low crime rate compared to global standards. However, like any country, it does experience certain types of criminal activity. Understanding the nature and extent of crime in Jordan can provide valuable insights into the country’s safety, especially for visitors and expatriates.
Crime rate and types of crime
The homicide rate in Jordan was approximately 1.1 per 100,000 people in 2022. Property crimes such as theft and robbery are present but at lower rates compared to many other nations.Violent crimes, including armed robbery and assaults, are rare. Petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, particularly in crowded areas or tourist sites, but these incidents are relatively infrequent. The risk of more severe violent crime, such as muggings, is low, especially outside major urban areas.
Safety perception and public confidence
The general perception of safety in Jordan is high. According to the Numbeo Crime Index, Jordan has a crime index score of around 40.65, placing it in the low to moderate range. This perception reflects the public’s confidence in the country’s security and law enforcement agencies. Most Jordanians feel safe walking alone during daylight hours, and while safety at night is slightly lower, it still remains at a respectable level.Law enforcement and counterterrorism
Jordan has a strong law enforcement presence, with various security agencies actively involved in maintaining public order and safety. The country has also been a key player in regional counterterrorism efforts. Despite being in a volatile region, Jordan has managed to thwart numerous terrorist plots and maintain a secure environment for its citizens and visitors.2022 Terrorist Incidents: There were no terrorist incidents reported in Jordan in 2022. Jordan continued to reinforce its border defenses and surveillance capabilities in response to terrorist and criminal threats emanating from its 230-mile border with Syria and 112-mile border with Iraq. The government has made interdicting drugs smuggled across its borders a top security priority.
Countering the Financing of Terrorism: The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) ) announced the removal of Jordan from the list of countries under increased monitoring in the field of anti-money laundering and counter terrorist financing, or what is known as the “gray list,” at its general meeting held during the period from 23-27 of this July 2024 in the French capital, Paris. In the presence of the Governor of the Central Bank of Jordan, Dr. Adel Al-Sharkas, Chairman of the National Committee for anti-Money Laundering and counter Terrorist Financing, and the presence of the Head of the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Unit.
Corruption and bribery
One area of concern in Jordan is the perception of corruption and bribery, which is considered moderately high. This issue is more prevalent in bureaucratic and administrative sectors rather than everyday interactions with the police or security forces. However, this has not significantly impacted the overall safety of the country.Human Trafficking and Prevention
Documented cases
In 2022, Jordan experienced a significant increase in human trafficking cases compared to the previous year. According to official reports, 131 confirmed victims were registered in 2022, a notable rise from the 61 victims reported in 2021. The Public Security Directorate's Anti-Human Trafficking Unit conducted 86 inspections in 2022, highlighting the growing efforts to address the issue. However, 181 potential victims were housed in shelters during the same year, a stark contrast to the 131 housed in 2021.The increased numbers in 2022 can be attributed to enhanced monitoring and investigative mechanisms, including the implementation of a national referral mechanism. This mechanism aimed to streamline the identification and support of trafficking victims. Additionally, legal reforms, such as amendments to the 2009 anti-trafficking law, strengthened penalties for traffickers. Despite these efforts, the U.S. Department of State's Trafficking in Persons Report maintained Jordan's tier 2 classification, acknowledging the government's improvements while noting shortcomings, such as lenient sentencing and continued exploitation under the visa sponsorship system.
The rise in cases is partly due to better detection, but challenges remain in prosecuting traffickers and protecting victims from further exploitation. The increase in labor inspections and legal amendments should continue to evolve, particularly concerning vulnerable populations such as migrant workers, refugees, and domestic workers.