Jordan Struggles with Rising Criminal Activity from Foreign Groups

Amman, Jordan - Amidst rising tensions along its borders, Jordan is facing a growing threat from foreign criminal groups, including Palestinian, Iraqi, and Syrian actors. These criminals are exploiting the country’s porous borders to engage in various illegal activities, such as drug trafficking and human smuggling.

Challenges in Combating Organized Crime

Despite being politically stable compared to neighboring countries, Jordan’s efforts to combat organized crime have been hindered by corruption and inefficiencies within its law enforcement agencies. The government has established various departments to tackle criminal activity, but many of these initiatives have fallen short due to lack of resources and effective implementation.

Justice System Challenges

The country’s justice system is also plagued by problems, including a significant case backlog and allegations of nepotism and special-interest influence. The prison system is mixed, with some inmates receiving education and training, while others face widespread human rights violations and torture.

Economic Environment

Jordan’s economic environment is also facing challenges, with the informal market accounting for around a quarter of the economy. This has led to difficulties in taxation and wage structures, making it hard for businesses to operate effectively.

Anti-Money Laundering Policy

However, Jordan has made significant strides in anti-money laundering policy and has strong regulations in place to prevent financial crimes. The country’s cooperation with international bodies has also made it an attractive destination for investment.

Challenges in Protecting Citizens

Despite these efforts, the government faces challenges in protecting its citizens from organized crime. Victim and witness protection schemes are under-resourced, and victims of domestic servitude often face arrest, imprisonment, and deportation.

Government Initiatives

In response to these challenges, the Jordanian government has launched various initiatives to prevent criminal activity, including education programs and awareness campaigns. However, the country’s media environment remains poor, with the government restricting media freedom and censoring news outlets.

International Concerns

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has expressed concerns over Jordan’s struggles to combat organized crime, highlighting the need for increased cooperation between law enforcement agencies and improved implementation of existing laws.

Conclusion

As the situation continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether Jordan can effectively tackle the rising threat from foreign criminal groups and ensure a safe and stable environment for its citizens.