Jordanian Authorities Step Up Efforts to Combat Financial Crime and Corruption

Jordan’s Integrity and Anti-Corruption Law (JIAC Law) has undergone significant amendments aimed at enhancing the country’s anti-corruption efforts. The revised law strengthens the financial and administrative independence of the Integrity and Anti-Corruption Committee (JIACC), expanding its investigative powers and scope.

Financial Independence Crucial in Combating Corruption

Corruption cases often involve the flow of funds, making financial independence essential to protect the integrity of anti-corruption authorities like JIACC. The revised law:

• Allows JIACC to own both movable and immovable assets (Article 3)
• Aligns JIACC members’ remuneration with that of the Chief Justice Council and deputies (Article 6)

This reduces JIACC’s dependence on government support and minimizes the risk of salaries being used as a tool for external pressure.

Administrative Independence Vital to Effective Oversight

The revised law ensures administrative independence by:

• Introducing measures to reduce the opportunity for dismissal of JIACC members during their tenure (Article 9)
• Granting the Chief of JIACC authority to enter into contracts and agreements with third parties (Article 10)
• Awarding JIACC the right to appoint a Secretary General, responsible for preparing yearly budgets and managing the executive body (Article 10)

This diminishes the likelihood of disciplinary action as a form of retaliation for decisions taken during investigations.

Stricter Rules for Effective Protection

The revised law enhances the operational powers of JIACC by:

• Allowing it to investigate any activity deemed corrupt (Article 5)
• Granting authority to investigate complaints overseen by the Court or where a final judgment has already been issued (Article 16)
• Extending its investigative capacity by allowing it to request documentary evidence from both natural and legal persons during investigations (Article 20)
• Removing the statute of limitation on corruption crimes, leaving liability for life for those who commit such offenses (Article 29)

Inclusion of Foreign Officials

The revised law includes foreign officials and employees of international organizations within the scope of public officials subject to anti-corruption laws, a best practice in combating corruption.

Conclusion

The amendments to the JIAC Law demonstrate Jordan’s commitment to combating financial crime and corruption. By strengthening the financial and administrative independence, investigative powers, and scope of JIACC, the country is better equipped to detect and prevent corrupt practices in government.