Irbid, May 17 (Petra) — Speaker of the House of Representatives Ahmad Safadi said Jordan committed to human rights and freedoms, highlighting ongoing legislative efforts.

Addressing the National Human Rights Forum titled “Hashemite Leadership and the Support of Human Rights,” Safadi affirmed that under His Majesty King Abdullah II’s leadership, Jordan has prioritised the protection and promotion of human rights.

He pointed to the establishment of a royal commission dedicated to improving human rights conditions and the founding of the National Centre for Human Rights, which works to uphold the values of Islam, Arab and Islamic heritage, the Constitution and international conventions.

Safadi highlighted that the King has actively spoken out on global issues, notably condemning the recent brutal aggression on Gaza and urging the international community to fulfil its
moral responsibilities regarding ongoing destruction, ethnic cleansing and genocide in Gaza.

He reiterated that the legislature continues to prioritise human rights and public freedoms, reflecting the country’s efforts to strengthen its human rights system and uphold the rule of law.

He noted that recent amendments to the Penal Code aim to reinforce human rights by reducing fines and expanding non-custodial measures, such as community service, in line with restorative justice principles.

First Deputy Speaker Mustafa Khasawneh spoke on the “pivotal” role of the royal family in defending Arab causes, especially the Palestinian cause. He emphasised that the royal family has historically championed Arab unity, political and diplomatic support for Palestinians, and the guardianship of Jerusalem’s holy sites.

Khasawneh pointed out the significant progress in constitutional human rights legislation during King Abdullah II’s reign. He noted the formation of a royal committee in 2000 to improve human rights conditions and the establishment of the independent National Centre for Human Rights.

He highlighted the launch of the comprehensive national human rights plan for 2016-2025 and the development of a roadmap for democratic transition and modernisation.

He listed key institutions established to protect and promote human rights, including the Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (HCD), the National Centre for Family Affairs (NCFA), the Government Coordination Unit for Human Rights, the Constitutional Court and several royal committees dedicated to constitutional reform, judicial development and political modernisation.

On healthcare, House Health Committee Chair Shaher Shatnawi praised the ongoing improvements under King Abdullah II. He emphasised that healthcare in Jordan is a matter of national policy and dignity, not just aspiration.

He highlighted the expansion of hospitals and health centres, improved infrastructure and the enhancement of medical staff preparedness across various regions, including remote areas.

Shatnawi noted Jordan’s effective response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including mass vaccinations that provided protection for all residents regardless of citizenship status.

He underscored the role of the Royal Medical Services, which integrates military and humanitarian efforts, and praised its support through the establishment of field hospitals in the occupied West Bank and Gaza, reflecting Jordan’s unwavering support for oppressed.

He further highlighted the private health sector’s development, which has become a “vital” contributor to the national health system. It attracts thousands of medical tourists from Arab countries annually and fosters a competitive environment focused on quality and affordability.

The cooperation between public and private sectors is seen as a model for integrated service delivery.

The King has directed efforts to expand universal health coverage, ensuring that no Jordanian is deprived of treatment and that all citizens feel supported by the state in times of need.

Nahla Momani, Acting Protection Commissioner and Head of Freedom of Expression at the National Centre for Human Rights, remarked on the advances in protecting public freedoms, highlighting Jordan’s deepening human rights identity and ongoing efforts to address challenges.

Hanin Obeidat, President of the Nour Al-Salam Society for Human Rights, praised King Abdullah II’s historic positions supporting human rights domestically and internationally. She emphasised his exceptional leadership in defending Gaza and championing Arab issues on global platforms.

This collective commitment underscores Jordan’s steadfast dedication to human rights, justice and humanitarian principles, guided by the visionary leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah II.

The event was organised by the Nour Al-Salam Society for Human Rights,

//Petra// AK
17/05/2025 19:14:54