Jordan Lags Behind in Protecting Whistleblowers, Experts Warn
Amman - Despite efforts to curb corruption and promote transparency, Jordan’s legal framework for protecting whistleblowers remains weak.
Whistleblowers play a crucial role in exposing corruption, fraud, mismanagement, and other abuses that threaten public health and safety, financial integrity, human rights, the environment, and the law. However, in Jordan, the lack of robust whistleblower protection laws and regulations leaves those who speak out against wrongdoing open to reprisals such as dismissal from work, non-renewal of employment contracts, marginalization, and threats.
Experts Call for Action
In a new study, experts have called for an integrated legal umbrella to protect witnesses and whistleblowers, as well as guarantees that they will not be subject to exclusion or discrimination. The report also recommends:
- Expanding the scope of legal protection in Jordanian legislation to include compensation for harm inflicted on whistleblowers or witnesses
- Amending the law to include protection for those who disclose information publicly or to a third party
“The current legal framework in Jordan is inadequate to protect whistleblowers,” said [expert name], a leading researcher on whistleblower protection. “We need strong laws that ensure that those who report wrongdoing are not punished for doing so.”
Consequences of Inaction
Jordan’s failure to protect whistleblowers has serious consequences for its economy and reputation. Corruption and abuse of power can lead to:
- Financial losses
- Damage to institutions
- Erosion of trust between citizens and government
The government must take immediate action to address the weaknesses in its whistleblower protection laws and regulations, said [expert name]. “Protecting whistleblowers is essential for promoting transparency and accountability in Jordan. It’s a matter of national interest.”
Recommendations
To address these concerns, experts recommend:
- Educating society members about their rights and duties towards the public interest
- Promoting a culture of transparency and accountability in governmental and institutional workplaces