Jordan Sees Rise in Crime Rate Amid Economic Pressures

The Kingdom of Jordan has experienced a significant surge in crime rates over the past five years, according to recent statistics. Despite concerns about the involvement of refugees in these crimes, authorities attribute this rise primarily to economic pressures.

Crime Hotspots

The majority of crimes, 51%, have taken place in the capital city of Amman. Human trafficking and labor exploitation are among the most common offenses, leading to concerns about the vulnerability of migrant workers and refugees who are often targeted by criminal gangs.

Causes of the Rise in Crime

Experts point out that many refugee camps in Jordan are located near borders, making them more susceptible to crimes such as smuggling and drug trafficking. The rise in crime has been linked to economic pressures, including reduced employment opportunities and poverty among young people. Political instability in the region has also contributed to a deterioration in the capacity of governments to exert effective control over their borders, providing fertile ground for criminal activity.

Response Efforts

In response to these concerns, Jordanian authorities have established an Anti-Human Trafficking Unit, which is responsible for leading anti-trafficking investigations and coordinating efforts with international partners. However, NGOs such as Tamkeen have criticized the country’s anti-trafficking laws, saying that they do not meet international standards and are often ineffective in practice.

Challenges and Recommendations

The US Department of State has also expressed concerns about Jordan’s efforts to combat human trafficking, citing shortcomings in victim identification and care, as well as inadequate resources for anti-trafficking measures. The department has highlighted the need for improved enforcement of anti-traffic laws and greater accountability for corrupt officials.

To address these challenges, authorities are working to strengthen their efforts to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable populations. However, more needs to be done to address the root causes of crime and ensure that victims receive the support they need to recover from their experiences.

Key Takeaways

• Jordan has experienced a significant rise in crime rates over the past five years
• Economic pressures, including reduced employment opportunities and poverty among young people, are contributing factors
• Human trafficking and labor exploitation are common offenses, particularly in refugee camps near borders
• Authorities have established an Anti-Human Trafficking Unit to combat these crimes, but more needs to be done to address root causes and provide support to victims.