Financial Crime World

Jordan Enacts Tough Anti-Bribery Laws to Combat Corruption

In a significant move to consolidate national integrity and promote transparency in government institutions, Jordan has introduced new anti-bribery laws aimed at curbing corruption and promoting good governance.

The New Law: Independent Accountability Commission for Corruption (IACC) Law

The IACC Law was issued last month to address the shortcomings of previous legislation. The law focuses on:

  • Preventing suspicious acts and practices
  • Controlling corrupt acts
  • Enforcing laws through investigation and prosecution

Key Provisions

Jurisdiction

The Commission has jurisdiction over:

  • Corrupt acts that prejudice public funds
  • Crimes listed in Article 16(a), including:
    • Crimes against job duties
    • Economic crimes
    • Failure to declare investments or property
    • Abuse of power
    • Nepotism
    • Corruption offences relating to international conventions ratified by Jordan

The Commission excludes:

  • Disputes between individuals
  • Complaints within the jurisdiction of other supervisory bodies
  • Cases already filed with courts

Support and Assistance

The IACC can seek assistance from:

  • Judicial officers
  • Officials from other ministries
  • Police officers

Punishments

Convicted individuals will face imprisonment of at least four months or a fine of between 500 and 5,000 Jordanian Dinars.

The law establishes a programme to protect witnesses and informants who come forward with information. The Commission can:

  • Provide protection for witnesses
  • Keep their identities anonymous
  • Use modern technology in the process of giving testimony

Additional Provisions

  • Prohibits the dropping or withdrawal of cases involving corruption proceeds
  • Allows the Committee to set up a “Reconciliations Account” at the Central Bank to save money and benefits derived from recovered or seized corruption proceeds until they are returned to their rightful owners

Expert Insights

Experts believe that the new law aims to:

  • Promote transparency in the public sector
  • Establish a centralised unit to combat white-collar crimes
  • Attract foreign investors who view Jordan as an attractive hub for future enterprises in the Middle East

With its strategic location at the heart of the region, Jordan is seen as a safe and corruption-free zone compared to some of its neighbours.