national_charter of jordan

Introduction
In order to place Jordan's progress to democracy on a stable foundation, a 60-member royal
commission was appointed by King Hussein in April 1990 with the aim of drafting guidelines
for the conduct of political party activity in Jordan. The commission comprised members
representing all the political groups in the country, and it produced a written consensus in the
form of the National Charter. The Charter was adopted in June 1991 at a national conference of
2000 leading Jordanians.
The National Charter outlines general guidelines for constructive dialogue between the
executive and legislative organs, as well as between decision-makers and political and
intellectual elites concerning questions of authority, rights and responsibility. It enunciates the
terms under which political parties can operate—namely, within the framework of the
Constitution and free of foreign funding—and also emphasizes broad agreement on the need
for the political reflection of Jordan's cultural pluralism. Perhaps most importantly, the Charter
has given Jordanian leaders a sense of direction, an insurance policy against outbidding by
unrestrained groups, and a degree of predictability in political affairs. It has also eased concerns
about the consequences of unbridled freedom of expression. The National Charter, along with
the Jordanian Constitution, provides a compass for the national debate on fundamental issues.
CHAPTER ONE
The Charter: Rationale and Aims
To complete and strengthen the process of Jordanian reconstruction, His Majesty the King
Hussein Bin Talal ordered the establishment of a Royal Commission and charged it with the
task of drawing up a National Charter which would lay the foundations and define the
methods of national public activity. The Charter would also point out the way for the future,
establishing general guidelines on the exercise of political pluralism in so far as it constitutes the
second component of democracy. This would be accomplished on the basis of the constant
tenets of the Constitution, as well as of political and national tradition. It would take cognisance
of existing realities in Jordanian society in such a manner as would guarantee continued
national progress and democratic change and protect them from taking an adverse course.
The Jordanian Constitution contains a range of constant general principles which regulate the
form of governance in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, as well as the manner of interaction
by the public with these principles. This has been in force since the inception and establishment
of the Jordanian State. The Jordanian public views these principles as axiomatic and
incontrovertible because they emanate from conviction, deeply-held beliefs and self-interest.
These principles reflect the pride of all Jordanians in their national identity as part and parcel of
the Arab nation and their faith in Islam as both the religion of the state and a defining
civilisation for the people.
· Since a commitment to these constant principles would make the relentless Jordanian
and national struggle for a better future a fundamental task entrusted to the
government and people to an equal degree,
· And, since continued solidarity between the leadership and the people is a most
important guarantee for securing Jordanian and national objectives, and, since the
historical phase through which Jordan and the Arab world are currently passing is
replete with challenges and dangers threatening the nation's destiny, foreshadowing a
possible hegemony over its will and its freedom and testing its ability to keep up with
scientific and cultural progress, to utilise its resources for the benefit of its citizenry or
to share with other nations in the building of a better future for mankind as a whole,
· And, since the Jordanian Arab citizens look for progress and for acquiring the necessary
means to defend their homeland and to ensure the security of their society, and since
they enjoy a high sense of responsibility and a deep appreciation of the importance of
their participation in securing their own and their children's future within an
established and stable framework of democracy and institutional principles,
· And, since democracy can only be enhanced through emphasis on the universally
recognized rights of the individual and through a guarantee of the rights of citizenship
as secured by the Jordanian Constitution, and since these rights are enshrined in our
great Arab and Islamic traditions and are given a place of honor therein, including the
people's right to hold varying opinions as well as the right of the citizens, be they male
or female, to change their circumstances and improve their lot by legal means, express
their views, and resort to whatever they deem necessary for the benefit of the whole by
legitimate methods, and participate in the decision-making process.
For all these reasons, therefore, the democratic option is the most efficient and appropriate
means of fulfilling the aspirations of the Jordanian people and their hopes at the national, Arab
and universal levels. Agreement on these approaches by all segments and by popular and
official bodies at all levels has been achieved with regard to a sum of concepts, values and basic
principles, as well as with regard to Jordanian and Arab objectives enunciated by the Charter.
These should regulate public life and organise the state of relations among all official and
popular bodies in society. Such agreement can only be regarded as an advanced form of
cultural achievement and a comprehensive platform for the future. Its salient features and
fundamental concepts are defined through the following set of facts, principles and constants:
FIRST: The system of government in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is parliamentary,
monarchic and hereditary. Adherence by all to legitimacy and to respect of the letter and spirit
of the Constitution shall enhance the union between the people and their leadership.
SECOND: The Jordanian people are part of the Arab nation. Arab unity is the only option that
would achieve national security for Jordan and the Arab nation in all Arab countries, guarantee
economic and psychological stability and ensure preservation, progress and continuity.
THIRD: Faith in God, respect for spiritual values, adherence to higher principles and
acceptance of the right of every individual to a life of freedom and decency are fundamental
concepts in the building of the state and the achievement of progress by Jordanian society.
FOURTH: Islam is the religion of the state , and Islamic law is the principal source of
legislation.
FIFTH: Arab Islamic civilisation, open to world civilisation, is the defining aspect of the
national identity of the Jordanian people. It constitutes one of the bases of its unity,
independence and progress in the face of division, dependence and cultural intrusion in all its
forms. It is also a wellhead of innate values which Jordanian society seeks to strengthen,
through science, learning, education and good example.
SIXTH: The Arabic language is the official language of the state. It is the language of the Holy
Qur'an which has preserved for the Arab nation its true essence. It is imperative that the
supremacy of Arabic be stressed by Jordanian society at all levels. Arabic should be used in all
stages of education. Attention must be given to translation and Arabisation to keep abreast of
accelerating scientific progress, and to the learning and teaching of other living languages.
SEVENTH: Respect for the mind, belief in dialogue, recognition of the right of others to
disagree, respect for the opinion of others, tolerance, and rejection of political and social
violence are basic characteristics of Jordanian society. Pursuant to this, there is no compulsion
in religion or recourse to fanaticism, sectarianism or regional bias.
EIGHTH: Jordanian men and women are equal under the law. There shall be no distinction
between them in rights and obligations regardless of difference in race, language or religion.
They shall exercise their constitutional rights and uphold the higher interest of the state and the
national ethic in such a manner as to ensure that the material and spiritual resources of
Jordanian society are freed and directed towards achieving the national objective of unity,
progress and building a better future.
NINTH: Strengthening the foundations of a state governed by the supremacy of the law, and
firming up the democratic process based on political pluralism are an obligation of the state's
institutions, of individual members of Jordanian society and all its other bodies.
TENTH: Political, party and intellectual pluralism is the means of strengthening democracy and
ensuring participation by the Jordanian people in administering the affairs of the state. It serves
to guarantee national unity and build a balanced civil society.
ELEVENTH: To be nationally committed is to respect the freedom of all citizens and to protect
the country's security, independence and progress. National commitment contributes to the
preservation of unity, the strengthening of the Jordanian people's sovereignty on their national
soil, and the protection of the people's integrity under conditions removed from all forms of
discrimination, fanaticism or introversion.
TWELFTH: National independence requires a liberation of the national will from all manner of
external pressure or hegemony. It is achieved and preserved through the constant and effective
exercise of a national political will at all levels. This requires the development of institutions
and systems and the acquisition of appropriate means and methods to effect modernisation and
progress in order to meet the challenges of the future, while at the same time preserving the
noble mores of Jordanian Arab society and taking pride in its innate traditions.
THIRTEENTH: The Jordanian Armed Forces are the country's protective shield and the
guarantors of its security and independence. The Arab Legion is in the forefront of the forces
entrusted with the task of liberation and the defence of Arab integrity. The Legion's strength
and effectiveness are enhanced through active support by the people and the popular army for
strengthening Jordanian national security. It is the responsibility of the state and society as a
whole to support the Armed Forces' capacity and preparedness and to provide the best possible
conditions for their development.
FOURTEENTH: An independent national economy is a true support of national independence,
security and progress. It is best achieved through self-reliance, development of latent national
capacities, rational use of national wealth and resources, as well as through strengthening all
components of the productive base, providing capable management, and moving towards a
stabilisation and integration of basic economic legislation, within a framework of social justice.
FIFTEENTH: Social justice for all Jordanians requires a range of social insurance schemes, an
updating of labour laws and a narrowing of income disparities in such a manner as to ensure
balance and social harmony and to provide security and stability for society as a whole.
SIXTEENTH: Respect for human rights, strengthening of democratic practices, guaranteeing a
continued balance in development and achieving administrative efficiency in the Kingdom are
fundamental national goals. They require a constant effort to promote a unified administrative
system for the Jordanian state and to ensure that local councils become answerable to central
authority for supervision and guidance purposes. They also require a strengthening of the
social, political and economic structures of the state through supporting the concept of local
administration in the various districts and governorates in such a manner as to provide
practical opportunities for the people to exercise self-government, enable continued close
coordination between governmental and popular bodies and lead to better democratic practices
through responsible participation within a framework of balanced rights and obligations.
SEVENTEENTH: Jordanian universities are an important part of the country's fabric. They
ought to function as beacons of intellectual enlightenment and scientific progress. To achieve
this, the universities must be provided with the requisites and guarantees of academic freedom.
They must be provided with the means to develop their curricula, keep abreast of knowledge,
develop their capacity for scientific research and enhance their role in developing Jordanian
society and meeting its needs. They must have the capacity to help build the country's
institutions, provide good instruction and qualify the country's youth to solve problems and
meet the challenges of the future.
EIGHTEENTH: The decade of the nineties is a decisive period for Jordan and the Arab World.
It is imperative that our nation must acquire the means to preserve its current state of
awakening and bring together the various components of its strength and solidarity in order to
meet the needs of the present as well as the challenges of the twenty-first century, as reflected in
the democratic revolution, the emphasis on human rights, the establishment of large economic
blocs, and the explosive impact of technology and informatics.
CHAPTER TWO
State Governed by Law and Political Pluralism
First: The State of Law and Political Pluralism
1.The State of Law is a democratic state committed to the principle of the supremacy of the law
and derives its legitimacy, authority and effectiveness from the free will of the people, and all
authorities within it are committed to providing legal, judicial and administrative guarantees to
protect the rights, integrity and basic freedoms of the individual, which rules were laid down
by Islam and confirmed by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and all other
international covenants and treaties promulgated by the United Nations in this regard.
2.The Jordanian State is a State of Law in the modern sense of a democratic state. It is a state for
all citizens regardless of any differences of opinion or any pluralism of approach. It derives its
strength from an actual and declared application of the principles of equality, justice and equal
opportunities and from the provision of practical means enabling the Jordanian people to
participate in the decisions affecting their lives and their affairs in such a manner as to achieve
peace of mind, security, faith in the future, genuine concern for the institutions of the state and
pride in belonging therein.
Second: Basic Pillars of a State of Law
1.Adherence to the letter and spirit of the Constitution by the legislative, executive and judiciary
authorities in all their actions, within a framework of priority of the right.
2.Adherence to the principle of the supremacy of the law, within a framework of
comprehensive review by an independent judiciary.
3.Adherence, in the exercise of democracy, to the principles and requisites of social justice.
4.Ensuring that laws in general, and laws pertaining to political parties, elections and
publications in particular, are dedicated to safeguarding the citizens' basic rights and public
freedoms.
5.Adoption of the democratic dialogue as the basis of expressing the views, free from any form
of coercion or intellectual terrorism, at all official and public levels.
6.Adherence by all government institutions, in the exercise of their duties and services to the
public and entities to the principle of complete equality. Said institutions, whether civil or
military, should not be exploited by any group, party or faction for political or party purposes,
without prejudice to the rights of citizens to organise themselves politically, provided that all of
the above is considered as a basic condition for the success of the democratic system.
In order to strengthen the above pillars and to bolster the democratic structure of the Jordanian
state and society, it is imperative to work on ensuring the following:
1.Establishing, through a special law, an autonomous body to be called the Complaints Bureau
to exercise administrative inspection and review the performance of the administration and the
actions of individuals therein. The Bureau shall report to Parliament and the Council of
Ministers in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Constitution, laws and decrees
without prejudice to the independence or jurisdiction of the judiciary.
2.Establishing, through a special law, an autonomous body to update and develop legislation
based on studies and research conducted for that purpose. This body shall report to Parliament
and the Council of Ministers.
3.Establishing a Constitutional Court with the following jurisdiction:
a. Interpreting the provisions of the Jordanian Constitution in matters referred to it by the
Council of Ministers.
b. Deciding on matters referred to it by the courts with regard to constitutional issues
arising from cases entertained before these courts.
c. Deciding on disputes and challenges pertaining to the constitutionality of laws and
decrees which are brought before it by interested parties.
In all of the aforementioned instances, the jurisdiction of the Constitutional Court shall be
limited to deciding on the constitutional aspect. Decisions by the Court shall be final and
binding on all state bodies and individuals.
4.Amalgamating legislation pertaining to state of emergency and state of extreme emergency
sanctioned by the Constitution into one law, which would make decisions by the Council of
Ministers declaring either state of emergency or specifying its duration subject to approval by
Parliament, and would in all cases place all administrative decisions taken by virtue of this
legislation subject to review by the High Court of Justice.
5.Restoring to Parliament the legislative powers of the Council of Ministers stipulated in
Articles 114 and 120 of the Constitution, in connection with decrees of public works, public
purchases and civil service.
6.Subjecting the budgets of public corporations to parliamentary approval. The budget of mixed
companies where public equity amounts to fifty percent or more shall be subject to subsequent
parliamentary review.
7.Taking steps to introduce constitutional amendments deemed necessary to meet development
needs and to repeal provisions in the Constitution which have lost their raison d'être.
Third: Guarantees of the Democratic Approach
The most important guarantees of the democratic approach and achievement of political
pluralism are the adherence to the following principles:
1 Respecting the fundamentals of democratic action by organised political groups and parties in
their general conduct since it constitutes a guarantee to justice and stability.
2 Strengthening the traits of tolerance and objectivity, respect for the beliefs of others and
groups in the exercise of political and party affairs, avoiding narrow personal conflicts and the
slander of individuals and entities.
3 Guaranteeing the basic freedoms of all citizens in such a manner as to protect the structure of
a democratic society, preserve the rights of individuals and ensure full freedom of expression
and its declaration with complete liberty within the limits of the Constitution.
4 Attaining equality, justice and equal opportunities for all citizens, male and female, without
discrimination.
5 Preserving the civilian and democratic character of the state, and regarding any attempt to
abolish or undermine this character as invalid as it would constitute a violation of the
Constitution and the pluralist principle and its perception.
Fourth: Principles and Limitations Governing the Establishment of Parties
1.Jordanians enjoy the right to establish and belong to political parties and groupings, provided
that their objectives are legitimate, their methods are peaceful and their statutes do not violate
the provisions of the Constitution. Laws regulating the operation of parties should not include
any provisions which overtly or implicitly call for abrogating the constitutional right to
establish political parties.
2.Political and party work in Jordan is based on the principle of pluralism of thought, opinion
and organisation and on securing the requisites of democratic competition and its legitimate
means.
3.A party must announce and declare its statutes and internal regulations which specify its
aims, financial resources and political, economic, social and cultural platforms.
4.The judiciary is solely empowered to decide on any infringement pertaining to the application
of the Parties Law.
5.Political parties shall, in their internal workings as well as in their programmes, approaches,
actions and public and party activities, adhere to the following principles:
a. Parties must employ democratic methods in their internal workings, choice of
leadership and in the exercise of their activities within a framework of democratic
dialogue and free competition among the political parties. The same shall apply to
relations and dealings by any party with other political parties and groupings as well as
with popular and constitutional institutions in a spirit of mutual respect for opposing
views.
b. There shall be no structural or financial affiliation by the leadership or members of any
party with any non-Jordanian. Also, no activities by any party or grouping shall be
conducted upon instructions or directions from any foreign state or body. Taking into
consideration what is stated in this paragraph and all principles and limitations
governing the organisation of parties, any provisions in the statute, internal regulations
or programmes of any licensed Jordanian party serving Palestine, Arab unity or Islamic
solidarity shall be regarded as a national Jordanian undertaking.
c. Any party in government or participating therein shall adhere to the principles of
equality and equal opportunities for all citizens and must regard ability and
qualifications as basic criteria for any appointment to public office.
d. In the matter of financial revenues, all parties shall rely on local, recognised, declared
and specified Jordanian resources. These shall be subject to financial audit and legal
review in the manner prescribed by law.
e. In matters of organisation, activities and orientation, all parties shall refrain from
organising or recruiting for party purposes within the ranks of the Jordanian Armed
Forces and security departments or establishing military or paramilitary (militia)
groups of any description whatsoever.
f. All parties, whatever their form of organisation, shall maintain premises with known
and declared addresses. Parties shall not use state, public, charitable or religious
institutions or bodies for the benefit of any party or grouping. Nor shall they involve
any such institutions in any political or factional conflicts.
CHAPTER THREE
Jordan's National Security
Jordan's national security depends to a very large extent on the resolve and inner strength of
Jordanian society to ensure the defence and independent will of the country, and to provide the
citizens, wherever they may reside, with the means of decent living, personal and financial
security and psychological and social stability. Jordan's physical location and political stance,
which place it in the front line of confrontation with the Zionist threat, require it to harness its
resources, efforts and capabilities in order to meet the challenge by defending its existence and
protecting its national security by all available means.
This being the case, Jordan's national security shall be based on the following considerations:
1. Jordan's security is part of Arab national security. In good times and bad, each has a
direct bearing on the other. This makes Jordan's steadfastness and strength indivisible
from those of the Arab nation, and emphasises the Arab dimension with regard to
Jordan's strength, security and stability.
2. In its approach to national security, Jordanian policy springs from a recognition of the
dangers of division and dependency which threaten the political, economic and social
security of Jordan and the Arab World. This calls for a national policy emphasising
independence in all fields, strengthening Jordanian society from within, increasing
commitment to the homeland, instilling in the youth a spirit of sacrifice and faith in the
justice of the nation's great causes and informing them of the nature, aims and alliances
of the enemy and the danger they pose to the future of the Arab nation and its holy
places. It also requires emphasis on the duty of Arabs and Muslims to support Jordan's
efforts to preserve its security and protect Arab and Muslim holy places.
3. Jordanian national security is also dependent on inculcating the concept of
professionalism in the armed forces, broadening their base, developing their
capabilities and rallying the resources of the country and people to their support, to
enable them to perform their duty of protecting the country and contributing to its
growth and development. This would achieve greater cohesion among the various
segments of society and a greater commitment to the preservation of the country's
security and achievements.
4. Increased attention must be given to developing the various arms of national security to
enable them to carry out their duties in the best manner possible, in accordance with
their respective functions with regard to external and internal security. This must be
done within a framework of respect for the dignity, freedom and constitutional rights of
the citizenry coupled with a moral responsibility of promoting an atmosphere of social
peace and mutual confidence between the security forces and the people in all walks of
life.
5. Economic and social security for all segments of the Jordanian people is an essential
component of national security. To achieve this, greater reliance must be placed on
Jordan's own resources to enable the country to meet the people's basic needs in a
manner that would accord due respect to the dignity of the individual and contribute to
his material and psychological well-being as well as to his means of livelihood.
6. Strengthening democracy is an essential component contributing to a deeper
commitment to the homeland and greater confidence in its institutions. It also
contributes to solidifying the union of the Jordanian people and further protecting their
national security. This must be achieved through providing the conditions for real
participation by all citizens in an atmosphere of social justice, equal opportunity and a
proper balance between rights and obligations.
CHAPTER FOUR
The Economy
The Jordanian economy is constrained by several factors which impede its growth and
development. Most prominent of these are: scarce mineral, energy and water resources, limited
area of arable land, high rates of population growth, small local market (in the absence of a
workable concept of Arab economic integration), political instability in the region and an
increasing national defence burden.
These constraints have led to a heavy dependence on external assistance and loans. However,
the economy has achieved high rates of growth which have left a mark in varying degrees on
many aspects of Jordanian life.
With the growth of the role of government in economic activities, it was natural for it to take on
the responsibility of providing the infrastructure in the various regions of the Kingdom.
However, in the absence of a comprehensive economic policy, proper management and
effective oversight of public performance, economic sectors have shown uneven growth. The
resultant income disparity has led to a contraction of the middle classes. At the same time, there
has been a noticeable rise in prestige projects, conspicuous consumption by the public and
private sectors, extravagant use of resources, a large increase in the public debt and a drop in
economic growth rates.
In light of the above, the future outlook for economic growth and social development must be
guided by the following:
1. The Jordanian economy must be based on respect for private ownership and
encouragement of private enterprise. On the other hand, natural resources and strategic
projects must be the property of the state, with a full right to their management and
supervision in the public interest. The state must also retain the prerogative of
regulating the economy and allocating resources in accordance with national priorities.
2. There must be a clear and well-defined developmental strategy based on the concept of
self-reliance, release of the innovative spirit in society, a high degree of respect for work
and productivity, reconstitution and development of the rural economy, harnessing
and rational use of natural and human resources, development of the national
productive base, improvement of services, upgrading of public administration and
strengthening of financial and quality control.
3. Optimal use must be made of all available resources, coupled with the utilisation of
appropriate scientific and technological means for improving productivity in a manner
that would meet the needs of the citizens, provide employment opportunities, improve
and diversify income and raise the standard of living.
4. Economic decisions must be declared, legal, objective, institutionally-based and free of
any personal interest or individual consideration.
5. Reliance must be placed on up-to-date and accurate data in the formulation of socioeconomic
policy and in the decision-making process. To that end, prompt data
collection, documentation and publication must be emphasised.
6. Emphasis must be placed on the right of establishing trade unions in all economic
sectors, including agriculture, and the regular updating of labour and trade union
legislation to ensure an minimum wage and continuous training of the labour force,
and to regulate relations between employers, workers and government within a
balanced framework of rights, obligations and roles.
7. Employment opportunities must be provided to all citizens. Policies and measures must
be adopted to achieve this objective, particularly through national plans encouraging
labour-intensive economic activities, better working conditions, an improved
educational system geared towards the needs of society and a greater social value
attached to work of any kind.
8. Combating poverty and its effects must be made a strategic goal of the Jordanian state
and a national responsibility requiring the provision of employment opportunities to all
who can and want to work, with first priority to be given to Jordanians. Also, there
must be a just regional and social distribution of services and development projects
with the objective of meeting basic needs, marginalising poverty and reducing its
impact on the individual and society.
9. Expatriate Jordanians must be regarded as part of the social and economic structure of
the state and, hence, measures must be taken to ensure a better knowledge of their
conditions, more effective communication with them and closer links with their home
base. This must be achieved through watching over their interests in the workplace,
ensuring a proper exercise of their citizens' rights and facilitating the fulfilment of their
obligations and commitments to the state.
10. Water must be regarded as a basic factor on which the future of development in Jordan
very heavily depends. This requires a clear exercise by the state over ownership,
sovereignty, preservation, development, management, storage, transportation and use
of water resources within a set of clear national policies and priorities.
11. The roles of all economic sectors—private, public, mixed and cooperative— must be
integrated, and objective conditions must be provided for their growth, with due
recognition to the role of each sector. Performance must be evaluated according to
defined economic and social considerations. Financial exemptions enjoyed by public
companies and institutions which operate on a commercial basis must be eliminated,
while ensuring that no conflict arises with the provisions or objectives of the
Encouragement of Investment Law.
12. The centrality to the national economy of the agricultural sector in Jordan must be
recognised and accorded the priority and attention it deserves. Also, the roles of
agricultural institutions must be activated and integrated in the areas of combating
desertification and urban encroachment, and developing and disseminating
agricultural research and extension. Agro-industries, productivity, marketing, and
livestock development must be regarded as an essential element of national policies
aimed at achieving food security.
13. Stress must be placed on industries with a high value-added element arising from the
use of local materials and other components, and favourable conditions and incentives
must be provided for their growth and development. Competition must be promoted
among the various national industries.
14. Services utilising domestic expertise must be developed and marketed, as they
constitute a basic component of the national economy. Also, in so far as tourism is a
major source of national income, the tourist potential must be developed to the full
through marketing, development of tourist and archaeological sites, encouraging
domestic tourism, cultural activities and Jordanian folklore, and supporting traditional
trades in all regions of the Kingdom.
15. Economic and financial legislation must be unambiguous and complementary in
nature. It must be updated in line with evolving domestic and external variables.
Savings must be encouraged and a favourable investment climate provided. Procedures
must be streamlined.
16. Financial and tax legislation must be regularly updated while ensuring a measure of
flexibility to meet the evolving economic and social needs of Jordanian society, because
such legislation is an important means of developing and regulating the national
economy and a basic requirement for balanced national development which leads to
reducing income disparity and achieving social justice.
17. Public borrowing by the state and its various institutions must be regulated in
accordance with the Kingdom's priorities and basic needs. Domestic and external loans,
and any other loans guaranteed by the government, must be made subject to
parliamentary approval.
18. There must be close cooperation and coordination between government bodies and
specialised social institutions in the ecological field, as all citizens have a right to a clean
and balanced environment. Protection of the environment from pollution is a national
responsibility towards present and future generations. Awareness must be
disseminated to ensure an environmentally sensitive public outlook and a high level of
public understanding of pollution problems. Measures must be taken to achieve a
balance between environmental needs and the development imperative. Criteria must
be set and legislation enacted to deal with the negative ecological impact of certain
types of development projects.
CHAPTER FIVE
The Social Aspect
1. Jordanian society derives its mores and values from the Arab and Islamic system of values, as
well as from the universal human ethic. Relationships among its people are based on the bond
of citizenship. Societal development rests on participation by all segments and institutions in
the process of construction and production, with the common objective of achieving integrated
social growth under conditions of freedom, equality and social justice.
2. The system is also based on respect for the individual as pointed out in the Almighty's
dictum: "We have bestowed blessings on Adam's children." State institutions must, therefore,
ensure the dignity and rights of all citizens, as guaranteed by the Constitution and affirmed by
international conventions. Individuals and groups must play their part in protecting these
rights and observing the principles of justice, equality and equal opportunity for all.
3. The family is the principal block of society. It is the natural environment for the rearing,
education and personality growth of the individual. The official and popular institutions of the
state must provide for the formation, cohesion and well-being of the family. They must assist it
in the task of providing future generations with a sound upbringing.
4. Good motherhood is the basis of good childhood, to which every child has a natural right.
State and society must provide special care for mothers and children, ensuring working
mothers' rights to maternity leave and child-care facilities, including health and social
guarantees, good working conditions and appropriate support amenities.
5. Children have the right to expect the best possible level of care and protection from parents as
well as from the state. This must be geared towards the development of their independent and
cooperative personalities, without any discrimination between males and females.
6. Women are men's partners and equals in contributing to the growth and development of
Jordanian society. This requires an affirmation of women's constitutional and legal right to
equality, guidance, training and employment as a means of enabling them to play their proper
role in the growth and development of society.
7. Youth constitute both the future of society and its renewable human wealth. The state must
draw up policies and national programmes aimed at harnessing the resources of the country's
youth, qualifying them for responsibility, productive work, innovation and creativity,
protecting them from delinquency and directing their creative energies towards constructive
development.
8. The handicapped have a right to special care, education, training, rehabilitation and
employment, thus enabling them to overcome their difficulties and become productive
members of Jordanian society.
9. Attention must be paid to the concept of social partnership in Jordanian society through
expanding social benefits and developing the Zakah (Alms) Law with the aim of regulating it,
unifying and upgrading collection and ensuring the achievement of its basic objectives.
10. Voluntary work must be based on the concept of national commitment and social
partnership. Attention must be paid to the establishment of voluntary societies and clubs and
providing them with incentives conducive to effective participation, to strengthening the
positive values of Jordanian society and to rejuvenating the Arab and Islamic traditions of
partnership, amity and altruism.
CHAPTER SIX
Culture, Education, Science and Information
First: Culture
In its intellectual, artistic and creative aspects, Arab and Islamic culture is the fountainhead of
Jordanian national culture through which the quality of Jordanian life is enhanced. It is a
symbol of the Arab nation's sturdiness, the source of its material and moral strength. and the
epitome of its unity and steadfastness in the face of foreign cultural incursions. Jordanian
culture is also part of the aspirations, issues and challenges of contemporary Arab culture.
This predicates the following:
1. The Arab language is the nation's tongue and its means of expressing its cultural
identity. It is the repository of the nation's thought, learning and values, and the vehicle
of knowledge transfer. It must be preserved and developed. Translation from and into
Arabic must be activated. Scientific and academic institutions must be urged to
participate in the process of Arabisation and publication in Arabic in all literary and
technical fields.
2. Care must be extended to preserving, expounding and documenting the nation's
heritage through sound scientific methods. It must be published and disseminated
within the means available, and in cooperation with Arab, Islamic and international
organisations concerned with the nation's heritage and contemporary culture.
3. Pride in Arab and Islamic history must be strengthened, recalling the positive
contribution of the Arab nation at the global level. Jordan's history must be
documented, its archaeology preserved and its facts studied, taught and expounded.
The role of the national will of the Jordanian people in shaping its present and its future
must be highlighted.
4. Attention must be paid to enhancing the cultural attainments of Jordanian citizens in all
regions of the Kingdom through promoting and developing national culture by all
available means, enabling meaningful participation in the process of comprehensive
cultural growth.
5. Due care must be extended to the instruments of disseminating national culture,
including libraries, data bases, theatres, exhibitions and museums, projecting the
cultural achievements of the Jordanian people.
6. Care must be extended to all forms of Jordanian folklore, as they constitute a creative
and enriching part of national culture. They must be brought abreast of the modern age
in a manner that would serve to integrate the nation's cultural fabric.
7. The right of Jordanian thinkers, men of letters, artists and poets to ready access to
various cultures must be ensured as a means of enriching and invigorating the national
culture—without detriment to Arab and Islamic values.
8. Copyright must be respected. Legislation protecting copyright and patents must be
updated.
Second: Education
Jordanian education is an evolving and integrated system. Its philosophical underpinning is
expressive of the nation's thought and values. It is based on the enduring tenets of the Islamic
faith, the supreme values of the Arab nation and the Jordanian national experience.
From this grows the following:
1. The educational policy in Jordan must ensure an integrated spiritual, physical,
psychological, mental and social growth of an individual who is aware of his rights,
cognisant of his obligations, committed to his country, proud of his nation, imbued
with the scientific spirit and democratic values, believing in human rights and in the
principles of justice, goodness and equality, and capable of being usefully productive
and creatively enterprising.
2. Education of the young must be based on faith in God, in the authentic character of the
Arab nation and in its amenability to renewal and creativity in all walks of life.
3. The educational system must endeavour to promote independent and creative thinking
through activating incentives for work, seriousness of purpose, precision and
distinction as well as through directing education towards equipping the individual for
the future. To achieve this, attention must be paid to the upgrading of intellectual
processes and psychological stamina to meet future challenges and dangers. Sound
methodologies of scientific and critical thought must be developed by upgrading the
skills of extrapolation, deduction, comprehension and rational interaction with
knowledge.
4. The educational system must be linked with the requirements of production. The
educational process must produce the qualified manpower that the country needs now
and in the future.
5. The educational system must be both comprehensive and flexible. It must make special
provisions for the gifted, who must be given opportunities commensurate with their
capabilities and aptitudes to ensure that society reaps the benefit of their potential
contribution. Similarly, care must be extended to educating the handicapped,
integrating them into the system at an early age and providing them with productive
skills.
6. Arabic must be the language of instruction at all levels and in all fields. To this end,
methods of teaching Arabic must be developed, as must the approach of teaching it to
speakers of other languages. Also, the learning of other living languages must be
stressed to enable the youth to familiarise themselves with literary, scientific and other
output in those languages and to maintain contact with other peoples.
7. The teaching profession must be accorded the attention it deserves in order for it to
occupy a suitable place among the other professions. Teachers should receive proper
training. They must be given the opportunity to participate in the decision-making
process. Their educational attainments and standard of living must be improved.
Third : Science and Technology
Science and technology have a central role in the development of society, as well as in solving
social and economic problems, strengthening Jordanian and Arab security, enabling society to
deal with changing conditions and contributing to world civilisation.
There are several requisites for an effective contribution by science and technology:
1. A clear political decision and national will must exist to acquire, transfer, develop and
utilise technology to meet the country's needs on the basis of careful planning which
relies on indigenous institutions and on an advanced system of education.
2. The scientific method must govern the people's way of thinking. It must be utilised for
solving problems and enhancing the ability of Jordanian society to transform raw data
into a system of knowledge which can be applied in various fields. National data banks
must be established for this purpose.
3. Special emphasis must be placed on the teaching of science and mathematics, with due
attention to their application, at all levels and in all types of educational institutions.
4. Society as a whole must acquire the culture of science and technology in order to be
able to interact in an effective and rational manner with advanced technological
processes.
5. A climate of academic freedom must be provided, together with the resources for
advanced scientific research. Also, research must be geared towards meeting the
developmental needs of Jordan in all areas. Arabic must be the medium of research and
development activities as well as a vehicle for innovation and publication.
6. Jordan's natural resources must be developed, whilst guarding against the negative
effects of technology, preserving the ecological balance and protecting the living
environment from pollution.
Fourth: Information and Communications
Rapidly accelerating advances in science and technology, coupled with the effects of the
communications revolution, have given communications and the mass media a principal role in
shaping knowledge, convictions and attitudes. The mass media also play an important role in
strengthening the democratic process.
The following are requisites in this field:
1. Jordan's information philosophy must be based on the principles of freedom, national
respon sibility, respect for the truth and regard for the values of the Arab and Islamic
nation.
2. Freedom of thought and expression, and access to information, must be viewed as a
right of every citizen, as well as of the press and other mass media. It is a right
enshrined in the Constitution and should under no circumstances be abridged or
violated.
3. Official and popular institutions must contribute to the training of personnel in the
information field with a view to enabling them to perform their tasks objectively and
impartially.
4. Citizens must have access to facts and information from legitimate transmission and
publication sources within Jordan and abroad. Censorship of classified material should
not prevent the citizens from exercising this right.
5. Jordanian citizens and political groups must have the right to use the national mass
media to state their opinions and give expression to their cultural, intellectual, technical
and scientific creativity. The state must draw up policies to ensure the exercise of this
right.
6. Information and communications media must serve as channels of conveying the
country's image, culture and achievements to the world, and as a means of transferring
new knowledge and cultural and scientific advances to the citizens. This requires an
enhancement of national capabilities and recourse to expert services.
7. Information media must have a formative role in shaping citizen attitudes of
commitment to their country and nation and pride in their Arab and Islamic heritage.
This function must be exercised in a manner that would integrate the roles of the
family, schools and places of worship in developing citizens' awareness, knowledge
and attitudes and would contribute to preserving social harmony and national unity
while countering the harmful effects of hostile propaganda.
8. All information media must strive to provide a climate of freedom conducive to the
growth of Jordanian society through enlightened knowledge and honest reporting.
They must shun any encroachment on the freedom of individuals or their personal
lives.
9. General policies of the information media in Jordan must strengthen respect for the
human mind and intelligence and for the individual's right to freedom of expression.
They must provide an appropriate climate to encourage creativity and innovation.
10. The state must guarantee the right and freedom of Jordanian individuals, groups and
institutions to own and publish newspapers in accordance with the provisions of the
Constitution. Legislation must be enacted to regulate the financing of newspapers with
the aim of protecting them from external influence.
11. The circulation of news and data must be regarded as an indivisible part of the freedom
of the press and information. The state must guarantee free access to information to the
extent that it does not jeopardise national security or the national interest. It must enact
legislation to protect journalists and other information personnel in the fulfilment of
their duties and to provide them with material and psychological security.
12. The mass media must be committed to the service of the country as a whole. They must
not be used to propagate the particular philosophy of any political party or group or to
give publicity to the work of individuals in any government in power. Citizens must be
given the opportunity to participate in drawing up mass-media policies through special
boards to be established for this purpose.
CHAPTER SEVEN
The Jordanian-Palestinian Relationship
The facts of the close historical and geographic relationship between Jordan and Palestine over
the ages, together with the nature of the national affiliation and cultural position of Jordanians
and Palestinians in the present and the future, have endowed this relationship with a special
and distinctive character. It is bolstered by the strong ties and deep common interests that exist
between them. It is imperative, therefore, that this relationship be preserved and strengthened
in the racist, Zionist and imperialist threat which endangers the existence, civilisation and
sacred heritage of the Arab nation and marks Jordan out as a target as it had previously
targeted Palestine.
In the light of these facts, the Jordanian-Palestinian relationship must be based on the following
principles:
First: The Palestinian Arab identity is a political identity forged by struggle. It is not and must
not be contradictory to the Arab Jordanian identity. The only contradiction lies with the Zionist
settler programme. Just as the national Palestinian identity is the antithesis of the Zionist
programme and hence struggles to dismantle it, the Jordanian national identity, viewed from
this perspective, is also an antithesis of the Zionist programme and hence fortifies Jordan
against Zionist designs and claims. In this light, Jordan and Palestine are one Arab coin struck
by their shared struggle to stand up to the expansionist Zionist programme and firmly reject the
alternative homeland conspiracy.
Second: Political variables at the Arab and international levels, together with developments in
the Jordanian Palestinian arena, resulted in the severing of administrative and legal ties with
the West Bank, with which the Palestine Liberation Organisation agreed. They also led to the
declaration of an independent Palestinian state under the leadership of the Palestine Liberation
Organisation and to recognition by Jordan of the Palestinian state. This has given rise to a new
reality which emphasises the special and distinctive nature of the Jordanian Palestinian
relationship and establishes the conditions for placing it on a right footing and basing it on a
clear set of principles.
Third: On this basis, the Jordanian-Palestinian relationship must not be understood or exploited
under any conditions whatsoever to imply any curtailment of the rights of citizenship or to lead
to a weakening of the Jordanian state from the inside or to create conditions leading to the
realisation of Zionist designs to make Jordan an alternative to the Palestinian homeland. From
this perspective, a commitment to Jordan's national security becomes the responsibility of all
citizens and serves to emphasise their continued struggle and sacrifice for the liberation of
Palestine and the preservation of Jordan and its identity.
Fourth: Since the unity-infused relationship between the states of Jordan and Palestine is a
matter of future inevitability, the maintenance of this relationship requires respect for the
choices to be made by Jordanians and Palestinians in achieving the best formulations for union
between them as a model for comprehensive Arab unity.
On the basis of the above, national Jordanian unity is the solid base on which close relations
must exist among the citizens in the Jordanian state. In addition, because it is impossible to
distinguish on the ground between the Jordanian Arab people regardless of their origins, this
unity must be protected and strengthened in such a manner as to bolster Jordan's sturdiness,
preserve its national security, defend the domestic front, guarantee equal opportunities for all
citizens without discrimination and safeguard their legitimate rights and interests as enshrined
in the Constitution.
CHAPTER EIGHT
Jordanian, Arab, Islamic and International Relations
Jordan is an indivisible part of the Arab and Islamic nation. Hence, its national identity is Arab
just as Islam is the faith of the nation, the fountainhead of its civilisation and the source of
values which govern its conduct.
In the light of these facts, the people, leadership and democratic institutions of Jordan firmly
believe in the inevitability of union among the Arab states and aspire to achieve union by all
legitimate means. They also aspire to establishing effective Arab-Islamic solidarity and
contributing to the formulation of a new and balanced world order in which international
relations are built on equivalent interests, respect for the will of the peoples and their right to
independence, freedom and security, and a sharing in the achievement of progress and
protection of human rights—free from hegemony or the usurpation of political decisions.
To achieve these aims, Jordan is guided by its own experience as part of the Arab nation, as well
as by its realistic and future view of the importance of the Arab and Islamic dimensions of the
world scene. Jordan believes that the achievement of its national Arab objectives requires a
unity-based Arab programme in accordance
with the following principles:
First: The Arab homeland, in its historical, geographic, material and cultural aspects, is the
natural home of the Arab nation. Arab unity is the fundamental base. It is also the real response
to the current state of disarray. It is the objective solution to the economic and social problems
and issues arising from this disarray. It is the path of transcending division, backwardness and
the best means for a better future for the Arab nation.
Second: The nature of the challenges imposed on Jordan and the Arab nation and the
magnitude of the threat confronting the Arab homeland demand a positive response to the
national sentiment which permeates all regions of the Arab homeland. They further require a
will to achieve Arab unity in order to defend Arab existence and identity and protect the
common national interests of the Arab nation in all Arab states.
Third: The Arab society to which Jordan aspires is one that is informed by the democratic
principle, believes in Arab unity and subscribes to the conviction that the strategic resources of
the Arab homeland belong to the entire Arab nation and must be placed in the service of Arab
society to build its economy and strengthen its national security.
Achieving these ends requires the following:
1. The democratic principle must be upheld, preserved, promoted and disseminated. Arab
national security must be strengthened in all its dimensions and at all levels through a
proper understanding of the requirements and conditions of this objective.
2. There must be a commitment to the great causes and national priorities of the Arab
people. Every Arab country must clarify its position in this regard. The degree of clarity
and sincerity of these positions is the only objective measure of state policies and
national intentions.
3. A form of unity must be sought among those Arab states believing in unity, in
accordance with objective state and national criteria and in such a manner as to protect
the interests of the citizens of each state in the light of its own specific character.
4. Disarray among states must be transcended in all its forms. Resort must be sought in
comprehensive economic and social development within a national Arab framework.
Economic complementarities must be established to ensure collective self-sufficiency
through the upgrading of human resources, development of natural resources and
strengthening of joint Arab action.
5. Pan-Arab plans and policies must be drawn up to prepare the Arab nation in all Arab
countries for the task of liberating Arab territories, with Palestine at the top of the
agenda. Also, resources and capabilities of the Arab homeland must be harnessed and
organised to achieve a unity of purpose, preserve the dignity of the Arab citizens and
make possible the restoration of usurped Arab rights.
6. Arab culture, together with national and Islamic feeling and commitment, must be
nurtured and promoted by Jordanian society. Inspiration must be sought from the
pioneering legacy of the Arab nation as a means of reinvigorating the Arab cultural role
on the world stage.
7. A clear and stable foundation must be established for closer Jordanian-Arab- Islamic
relations on the basis of the nation's faith, values and common history. The great causes
of the Arab and Islamic worlds must be brought to the fore in the face of the challenges
and dangers which threaten the interests of the Arab and Islamic nations to an equal
degree.
8. Jordan's international relations in all fields must be based on the principles of equality,
mutual respect and balanced interests, and also on the basis of the attitudes of
individual states to Arab causes, foremost of which is the Palestinian issue.
9. Jordan must contribute to the formulation of international relations in accordance with
fixed criteria based on respect for the freedom, independence and right of peoples to
self-determination, in addition to principles of right, justice, equality, a just peace
among nations, a respect for human rights and a rejection of discrimination and
international hegemony in all its forms.

The Constitution of The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

The Constitution of The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
January 1, 1952
We, Talal the First, King of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, in accordance with Article 25 of
the Constitution, and in pursuance of the decision of the Senate and House of Representatives,
hereby approve this revised Constitution and decree its promulgation.
CHAPTER ONE
The State and System of Government
Article One
The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is an independent sovereign Arab State. It is indivisible and
inalienable and no part of it may be ceded. The people of Jordan form a part of the Arab Nation,
and its system of government is parliamentary with a hereditary monarchy.
Article Two
Islam is the religion of the State and Arabic is its official language.
Article Three
The city of Amman is the capital of the Kingdom, but it may be transferred to another place by a
special law.
Article Four
The Jordanian flag shall be of the following form and dimensions: "The length of the flag shall
be twice its width. It shall be divided horizontally into three parallel and equal stripes, the
uppermost of which shall be black, the center, white, and the lowest, green. At the end of the
flag-staff the flag shall have a red triangle, the base of which shall be equal to its width. In the
triangle there shall be a white seven- pointed star of such a size that it may be one-fourteenth
part of its length. The star shall be so placed that its center shall be at the intersection of the lines
bisecting the angles of the triangle, and the axis running through one of its points shall be
parallel to the base of the triangle."
CHAPTER TWO
Rights and Duties of Jordanians
Article Five
Jordanian Nationality shall be defined by law.
Article Six
(i) Jordanians shall be equal before the law. There shall be no discrimination between them as
regards to their rights and duties on grounds of race, language or religion.
(ii) The Government shall ensure work and education within the limits of its possibilities, and it
shall ensure a state of tranquillity and equal opportunities to all Jordanians.
Article Seven
Personal freedom shall be guaranteed.
Article Eight
No person may be detained or imprisoned except in accordance with the provisions of the law.
Article Nine
(i) No Jordanian may be deported from the territory of the Kingdom.
(ii) No Jordanian may be prevented from residing at any place, or be compelled to reside in any
specified place, except in the circumstances prescribed by law.
Article Ten
Dwelling houses shall be inviolable and shall not be entered except in the circumstances and in
the manner prescribed by law.
Article Eleven
No property of any person may be expropriated except for purposes of public utility and in
consideration of a just compensation, as may be prescribed by law.
Article Twelve
No loans may be forcibly imposed and no property, movable or immovable, may be confiscated
except in accordance with the law.
Article Thirteen
Compulsory labour may not be imposed on any person, but any person may be required to do
any work or to render any service in circumstances prescribed by law, as stated hereunder:
(i) In a state of necessity, such as a state of war, the occurrence of a public danger, or fire, flood,
famine, earthquake, serious epidemic among human beings or animals or animal diseases,
insects or pests or any other similar events, or in any other circumstances which might
endanger the safety of the population, in whole or in part.
(ii) As a result of the conviction of the person concerned by a court of law, provided that the
work is done and the service rendered under the supervision of an official authority and
provided further that no convicted person shall be hired to, or be placed at the disposal of, any
persons, companies, societies or public bodies.
Article Fourteen
The State shall safeguard the free exercise of all forms of worship and religious rites in
accordance with the customs observed in the Kingdom, unless such is inconsistent with public
order or morality.
Article Fifteen
(i) The State shall guarantee freedom of opinion. Every Jordanian shall be free to express his
opinion by speech, in writing, or by means of photographic representation and other forms of
expression, provided that such does not violate the law.
(ii) Freedom of the press and publications shall be ensured within the limits of the law.
(iii) Newspapers shall not be suspended from publication nor shall their permits be revoked
except in accordance with the provisions of the law.
(iv) In the event of the declaration of martial law or a state of emergency, a limited censorship
on newspapers, publications, books and broadcasts in matters affecting public safety and
national defence may be imposed by law.
(v) Control of the resources of newspaper shall be regulated by law.
Article Sixteen
(i) Jordanians shall have the right to hold meetings within the limits of the law.
(ii) Jordanians are entitled to establish societies and political parties provided that the objects of
such societies and parties are lawful, their methods peaceful, and their by-laws not contrary to
the provisions of the Constitution.
(iii) The establishment of societies and political parties and the control of their resources shall be
regulated by law.
Article Seventeen
Jordanians are entitled to address the public authorities on any personal matters affecting them,
or on any matter relative to public affairs, in such a manner and under such conditions as may
be prescribed by law.
Article Eighteen
All postal, telegraphic and telephonic communications shall be treated as secret and as such
shall not be subject to censorship or suspension except in circumstances prescribed by law.
Article Nineteen
Congregations shall have the right to establish and maintain their own schools for the education
of their own members provided that they comply with the general provisions of the law and be
subject to the control of Government in matters relating to their curricula and orientation.
Article Twenty
Elementary education shall be compulsory for Jordanians and free of charge in Government
schools.
Article Twenty One
(i) Political refugees shall not be extradited on account of their political beliefs or for their
defence of liberty.
(ii) Extradition of ordinary criminals shall be regulated by international agreements and laws.
Article Twenty Two
(i) Political refugees shall not be extradited on account of their political beliefs or for their
defence of liberty.
(ii) Extradition of ordinary criminals shall be regulated by international agreements and laws.
Article Twenty Three
(i) Work is the right of every citizen, and the State shall provide opportunities for work to all
citizens by directing the national economy and raising its standards.
(ii) The State shall protect labour and enact legislation therefore based on the following
principles:
(a) Every worker shall receive wages commensurate with the quantity and quality of his work.
(b) The number of hours of work per week shall be defined. Workers shall be given weekly and
annual days of paid rest.
(c) Special compensation shall be given to workers supporting families and on dismissal, illness,
old age and emergencies arising out of the nature of their work.
(d) Special conditions shall be made for the employment of women and juveniles.
(e) Factories and workshops shall be subject to health safeguards.
(f) Free trade unions may be formed within the limits of the law.
CHAPTER THREE
Powers: General Provisions
Article Twenty Four
(i) The Nation is the source of all powers.
(ii) The Nation shall exercise its powers in the manner prescribed by the present Constitution.
Article Twenty Five
The Legislative Power shall be vested in the National Assembly and the King. The National
Assembly shall consist of a Senate and a Chamber of Deputies.
Article Twenty Six
The Executive Power shall be vested in the King, who shall exercise his powers through his
Ministers in accordance with the provisions of the present Constitution.
Article Twenty Seven
The Judicial Power shall be exercised by the courts of law in their varying types and degrees.
All judgements shall be given in accordance with the law and pronounced in the name of the
King
CHAPTER FOUR
The Executive Power
Part I
The King and His Prerogatives
Article Twenty Eight
The Throne of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is hereditary to the dynasty of King Abdullah
ibn Al-Hussein in a direct line through his male heirs as provided hereinafter:
(a) * The Royal title shall pass from the holder of the Throne to his eldest son, and to the eldest
son of that son and in linear succession by a similar process thereafter. Should the eldest son die
before the Throne devolves upon him, his eldest son shall inherit the Throne, despite the
existence of brothers to the deceased son. The King may, however, select one of his brothers as
heir apparent. In this event, title to the Throne shall pass to him from the holder of the Throne.
* As amended in the Official Gazette No. 1831 of 1/4/1965
(b) Should the person entitled to the Throne die without a male heir, the Throne shall pass to his
eldest brother. In the event that the holder of the Throne has no brothers, the Throne shall pass
to the eldest son of his eldest brother. Should his eldest brother have no son, the Throne shall
pass to the eldest son of his other brothers according to their seniority in age.
(c) In the absence of any brothers or nephews, the Throne shall pass to the uncles and their
descendants, according to the order prescribed in paragraph (b) above.
(d) Should the last King die without any heir in the manner prescribed above, the Throne shall
devolve upon the person whom the National Assembly shall select from amongst the
descendants of the founder of the Arab Revolt, the late King Hussein Ibn Ali.
(e) No person shall ascend the Throne unless he is a Moslem, mentally sound and born by a
legitimate wife and of Moslem parents.
(f) No person shall ascend the Throne who has been excluded from succession by a Royal
Decree on the ground of unsuitability. Such exclusion shall not of itself include the descendants
of such person. The Royal Decree of exclusion shall be countersigned by the Prime Minister and
by four Ministers, at least two of whom shall be the Minister of Interior and the Minister of
Justice.
(g) The King attains his majority upon the completion of his eighteenth year according to the
lunar calendar. If the Throne devolves upon a person who is below this age, the powers of the
King shall be exercised by a Regent or Council of Regency, who shall have been appointed by a
Royal Decree by the reigning King. If the King dies without making such nomination, the
Council of Ministers shall appoint the Regent or Council of Regency.
(h) Should the King become unable to exercise his powers on account of illness, his powers shall
be exercised by a Viceregent or Council of Viceregents. The Viceregent or Council of
Viceregents shall be appointed by Royal Decree. Should the King be unable to make such
appointment, such shall be made by the Council of Ministers.
(i) Should the King wish to leave the country, he shall, before his departure and by a Royal
Decree, appoint a Viceregent or a Council of Viceregents to exercise his powers during his
absence. The Viceregent or Council of Viceregents shall observe any conditions which may be
prescribed in the Royal Decree. If the absence of the King is extended to more than four months
and the National Assembly is not in session, the Assembly shall be summoned immediately to
consider the matter.
(j) Before the Regent or Viceregent or any member of the Council of Regency or of the council of
Viceregents assumes his office he shall take an oath, as prescribed in Article 29 hereof, before
the Council of Ministers.
(k)In the event of the death of the Regent or Viceregent or member of the Council of Regency or
of the Council of Viceregents, or should he become incapable of performing his duties, the
Council of Ministers shall appoint a suitable person to replace him.
(l) A Regent or Viceregent or member of the Council of Regency or of the Council of Viceregents
shall not be less than thirty years according to the lunar calendar. However, any male relative of
the King who has completed his eighteenth year of age according to the lunar calendar may be
appointed to any such office.
(m) In the event of the King being incapacitated by any mental illness, the Council of Ministers,
on confirmation of his illness, shall immediately convene the National Assembly. Should the
illness be definitely confirmed, the National Assembly shall by resolution depose the King,
whereupon title to the Throne shall devolve upon the person entitled thereto after him
according to the provisions of this Constitution. If the Chamber of Deputies stands dissolved at
the time or if its term had expired and no new Chamber had been elected, the former Chamber
of Deputies shall be convened for the purpose.
Article Twenty Nine
The King shall upon his succession to the Throne take an oath before the National Assembly,
which shall be convened under the chairmanship of the Speaker of the Senate, to respect and
observe the Constitution and be loyal to the Nation.
Article Thirty
The King is the Head of the State and is immune from any liability and responsibility.
Article Thirty One
The King ratifies the laws and promulgates them. He shall direct the enactment of such
regulations as may be necessary for their implementation, provided that such regulations are
not inconsistent with the provisions thereof.
Article Thirty Two
The King is the Supreme Commander of the Land, Naval and Air Forces.
Article Thirty Three
(i) ** The King declares war, concludes peace and ratifies treaties and agreements.
(ii) Treaties and agreements which involve financial commitments to the Treasury or affect the
public or private rights of Jordanians shall not be valid unless approved by the National
Assembly. In no circumstances shall any secret terms contained in any treaty or agreement be
contrary to their overt terms.
* As amended in the Official Gazette No. 1380 dated 4/5/1958.
** As amended in the Official Gazette No. 1396 dated 1/9/1958.
Article Thirty Four
(i) The King issues orders for the holding of elections to the Chamber of Deputies in accordance
with the provisions of the law.
(ii) The King convenes the National Assembly, inaugurates, adjourns, and prorogues it in
accordance with the provisions of the Constitution.
(iii) The King may dissolve the Chamber of Deputies.
(iv) * The King may dissolve the Senate or relieve any Senator of his membership.
* As amended in the Official Gazette No. 2523 dated 10/11/1974.
Article Thirty Five
The King appoints the Prime Minister and may dismiss him or accept his resignation. He
appoints the Ministers; he also dismisses them or accepts their resignation, upon the
recommendation of the Prime Minister.
Article Thirty Six
The King appoints members of the Senate and appoints the Speaker from amongst them and
accepts their resignation.
Article Thirty Seven
(i) The King creates, confers and withdraws civil and military ranks, medals and honorific titles.
He may delegate this authority to any other person by special law.
(ii) Currency shall be minted in the name of the King in pursuance of the law.
Article Thirty Eight
The King has the right to grant a special pardon or remit any sentence, but any general pardon
shall be determined by special law.
Article Thirty Nine
No death sentence shall be executed except after confirmation by the King. Every such sentence
shall be placed before the King by the Council of Ministers accompanied by their opinion
thereon.
Article Fourty
The King shall exercise the powers vested in him by Royal Decree. Every such Decree shall be
countersigned by the Prime Minister and the Minister or Ministers concerned. The King
expresses his concurrence by placing his signature above the said signatures.
Part II
Ministers
Article Fourty One
The Council of Ministers shall consist of the Prime Minister, who shall be the President, and of
such number of Ministers as may be needed and as public interest may require.
Article Fourty Two
No person shall be appointed a Minister unless he is a Jordanian.
Article Fourty Three
The Prime Minister and Ministers shall, before assuming their duties, take the following oath
before the King:
"I swear by Almighty God to be loyal to the King, uphold the Constitution, serve the Nation
and conscientiously perform the duties entrusted to me."
Article Fourty Four
No Minister may purchase or lease any Government property even if the sale or lease thereof
has been offered in public auction. He shall not, while holding his Ministerial office, become a
member of the board of directors of any company or take part in any commercial or financial
transaction or receive a salary from any company.
Article Fourty Five
(i) * The Council of Ministers shall be entrusted with the responsibility of administering all
affairs of the State, internal and external, with the exception of such matters as are or may be
entrusted by the present Constitution (**) or by any other legislation to any other person or
body.
(ii) The duties of the Prime Minister, the Ministers and the Council of Ministers shall be defined
by regulations made by the Council of Ministers and ratified by the King.
* As amended in the Official Gazette No. 1380 of 4/5/1958.
* As amended in the Official Gazette No. 1396 of 1/9/1958.
Article Fourty Six
Any Minister may be entrusted with the responsibility of one or more Ministries, as may be
stated in the Decree of appointment.
Article Fourty Seven
(i) Every Minister shall be responsible for the conduct of all matters pertaining to his Ministry.
He shall refer to the Prime Minister any matter not falling within his competence.
(ii) The Prime Minister shall dispose of all matters within his powers and competence and shall
refer other matters to the Council of Ministers for such decision as may be necessary.
Article Fourty Eight
The Prime Minister and Ministers shall sign the decisions taken by the Council of Ministers,
which shall be submitted to the King for ratification in all cases required under the present
Constitution or any law or regulations enacted thereunder. Such decisions shall be
implemented by the Prime Minister and Ministers, each within the limits of his competence.
Article Fourty Nine
Verbal or written orders of the King shall not release the Ministers from their responsibilities
Article Fifty
In the event of the resignation or dismissal of the Prime Minister from his office, all Ministers
shall be considered as having automatically resigned or been dismissed from their offices.
Article Fifty One
The Prime Minister and Ministers shall be collectively responsible before the Chamber of
Deputies in respect of the public policy of the State. In addition, each Minister shall be
responsible before the Chamber of Deputies in respect of the affairs of his Ministry.
Article Fifty Two
The Prime Minister, or the Minister who is a member of either the Chamber of Deputies or the
Senate, shall be entitled to vote in the House to which he belongs and to speak in both Houses.
However, Ministers who are not members of either House may speak in both Houses without
the right to vote.
Article Fifty Three
(i) * A motion of no confidence in the Council of Ministers or in any Minister may be raised by
the Chamber of Deputies.
(ii) If the Chamber of Deputies casts a vote of no confidence in the Council of Ministers by an
absolute majority of all its members, the Council of Ministers shall resign.
(iii) If the vote of no confidence concerns an individual Minister, he shall resign his office.
* As amended in the Official Gazette No. 1179 17/4/1954.
Article Fifty Four
(i) A session to consider a vote of no confidence in the Council of Ministers or in any individual
Minister shall be held either at the request of the Prime Minister or at a request signed by not
less than ten Deputies.
(ii) * A vote of no confidence in the Council of Ministers or in any individual Minister may be
postponed only for one period, which shall not exceed ten days, either upon the request of the
Minister concerned or of the Council of Ministers. The Chamber shall not be dissolved during
this period.
(iii) ** Every newly formed Council of Ministers shall within one month of its formation, in
cases where the Chamber of Deputies is in session, place before the Chamber of Deputies a
statement of its policy and request a vote confidence on the basis of the said statement. If the
Chamber of Deputies is not in session at the time, or stands dissolved, the Speech from the
Throne shall be considered to be a statement of its policy for the purposes of this Article.
* As amended in the Official Gazette No. 1179 of 17/4/1954 and No. 1380 of 4/5/1958.
** As amended in the Official Gazette No. 1380 of 4/5/1958.
Article Fifty Five
Ministers shall be tried by a High Tribunal for offences which may be attributed to them in the
course of the performance of their duties.
Article Fifty Six
The Chamber of Deputies is entitled to impeach Ministers, but a bill of impeachment shall not
be passed except by a majority of two-thirds of the members of the Chamber. The Chamber of
Deputies shall appoint, from among its members, deputies who shall present the impeachment
to, and proceed before, the High Tribunal.
Article Fifty Seven
The High Tribunal shall consist of the Speaker of the Senate as President and eight members,
three of whom shall be selected by ballot by the Senate from amongst its members and five
members to be selected from amongst the judges of the highest Civil Court in order of seniority.
In case of necessity, the number shall be completed from the presidents of the lower courts, also
in order of seniority.
Article Fifty Eight
The High Tribunal shall apply the provisions of the Penal Code in force in respect of offences
specified therein. A special law shall specify the offences for which Ministers shall be
responsible in cases where such offences are not covered by the Penal Code.
Article Fifty Nine
* Judgements shall be given by the High Tribunal by a majority of six votes.
* As amended in the Official Gazette No. 1380 of 4/5/1958.
Article Sixty
The High Tribunal shall make its own Rules of Procedure for the trial of Ministers, pending the
enactment of a special law for this purpose.
Article Sixty One
A Minister who is impeached by the Chamber of Deputies shall be suspended from office until
his case is determined by the High Tribunal. His resignation shall not prevent the institution of
criminal proceedings against him, or the continuance of his trial.
CHAPTER FIVE
The Legislative Power
The National Assembly
Article 62
The National Assembly shall consist of two Houses: The Senate and the Chamber of Deputies.
Part I
The Senate
Article 63
The Senate, including the Speaker, shall consist of not more than one- half of the number of the
members of the Chamber of Deputies.
Article 64
In addition to the requirements prescribed in Article 75 of the present Constitution, a Senator must
have completed forty calendar years of age and must belong to one of the following classes:
Present and former Prime Ministers and Ministers, persons who had previously held the office of
Ambassador, Minister Plenipotentiary, Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies, President and judges
of the Court of Cassation and of the Civil and Sharia Courts of Appeal, retired military officers of
the rank of Lt. General and above, former Deputies who were elected at least twice as deputies,
and other similar personalities who enjoy the confidence of the people in view of the services
rendered by them to the Nation and the Country.
Article 65
(i) * The term of office of Senators shall be four years. The appointment of members shall be
renewed every four years. Senators whose term of office had expired may be re-appointed for a
further term.
(ii) The term of office of the Speaker of the Senate shall be two years but he may be re-appointed.
* As amended in the Official Gazette No. 1243 of 16/10/1955.
Article 66
(i) The Senate shall meet simultaneously with the Chamber of Deputies and the sessions shall be
the same for both Houses.
(ii) If the Chamber of Deputies is dissolved, the sessions of the Senate shall be suspended.
Part II
The Chamber of Deputies
Article 67
The Chamber of Deputies shall consist of members elected by secret ballot in a general direct
election and in accordance with the provisions of an Electoral Law which shall ensure the
following principles:
(i) The integrity of the election.
(ii) The right of candidates to supervise the process of election.
(iii) The punishment of any person who may adversely influence the will of voters.
Article 68
(i) * The term of office of the Chamber of Deputies shall be four calendar years commencing from
the date of the announcement of the results of the general elections in the Official Gazette. The
King may, by a Royal Decree, prolong the term of the Chamber for a period of not less than one
year and not more than two years.
(ii) A general election shall take place during the four months preceding the end of the term of the
Chamber. If the election has not taken place by the end of the term of the Chamber or if such
election is delayed for any reason, the Chamber shall remain in office until the election of a new
Chamber.
* As amended in the Official Gazette No. 1476 of 16/2/1960.
Article 69
(i) The Chamber of Deputies shall elect its Speaker at the beginning of each ordinary session for a
period of one calendar year, but he may be re-elected.
(ii) If the Chamber of Deputies meets in an extraordinary session and has no Speaker, the Chamber
shall elect a Speaker for a term of office which shall terminate at the beginning of the ordinary
session.
Article 70
In addition to the requirements prescribed in Article 75 of the present Constitution, a deputy must
have completed thirty
calendar years of his age.
Article 71
The Chamber of Deputies shall have the right to determine the validity of the election of its
members. Any voter shall have the right to present a petition to the Secretariat of the Chamber
within fifteen days of the announcement of the results of the election in his constituency setting out
the legal grounds for invalidating the election of any deputy. No election may be considered
invalid unless it has been declared as such by a majority of two-thirds of the members of the
Chamber.
Article 72
Any deputy may resign his seat by notifying the Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies in writing,
and the Speaker shall place the resignation before the Chamber for a decision as to whether the
resignation should be accepted or rejected.
Article 73
(i) If the Chamber of Deputies is dissolved, a general election shall be held, and the new Chamber
shall convene in an extraordinary session not later than four months from the date of dissolution.
Such session shall be deemed to be an ordinary session in accordance with the provisions of Article
78 of the present Constitution and shall be subject to the conditions prescribed therein in respect of
prolongation or adjournment.
(ii) If no elections have taken place by the end of the four months, the dissolved Chamber shall
assume its full constitutional powers and assemble forthwith as if its dissolution had not taken
place. It shall remain in office until the election of a new Chamber.
(iii) * Such extraordinary session shall not in any event continue after the 30th day of September
and shall be prorogued on that date so that the Chamber may be able to hold its first ordinary
session on the first day of October. If such extraordinary session happens to be held during
October and November, it shall be considered as the first ordinary session of the Chamber of
Deputies.
(iv) ** Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraphs (i) and (ii) of this Article, the King may
postpone the holding of the general elections if a force majeure has occurred which the Council of
Ministers considers as rendering the holding of elections impossible.
(v) *** Should the force majeure provided for in paragraph (iv) hereof persist, the King may, upon
a decision taken by the Council of Ministers, reinstate and convene the dissolved Chamber. Such
Chamber shall be deemed as having been in existence in all respects from the date of the issue of
the Royal Decree effecting its reinstatement. It shall exercise its full constitutional powers and be
subject to the provisions of this Constitution, including those pertaining to the term of the
Chamber and its dissolution. The session which it holds in such case shall be deemed to be its first
ordinary session regardless of the date when it takes place.
(vi) **** Should the Council of Ministers consider that the holding of general elections in at least
one half of the constituencies is possible in spite of the persistence of the force majeure referred to
in this Article, the King may order the holding of elections in such constituencies. The successful
members shall elect not more than one-half of the number of the members for the other
constituencies in which it was impossible to hold elections, provided that they can hold a (valid)
meeting only by a majority of three-quarters of their number, and provided also that the elections
shall be by at least a two-thirds majority and shall be in accordance with the provisions and in the
manner provided for in Article (88) of the Constitution. The successful members and the members
elected in accordance with this paragraph shall elect the remaining members for the said
constituencies in accordance with the provisions of this paragraph.
* As amended in the Official Gazette No. 1243 of 16/10/1955.
** As amended in the Official Gazette No. 2523 of 10/11/1974 and re- amended in the Official Gazette No.
2605 of 7/2/1976.
*** As amended in the Official Gazette No. 2605 of 7/2/1976.
**** This was added as per amendment in the Official Gazette No. 3201 of 9/1/1984.
Article 74
* If the Chamber of Deputies is dissolved for any reason, the new Chamber shall not be dissolved
for the same reason. A Minister who intends to nominate himself for election shall resign fifteen
days at least before the beginning of nomination.
* As amended in the Official Gazette No. 1179 of 17/4/1954 and No.1380
of 4/5/1958.
Part III
Provisions Governing Both Houses
Article 75
(i) No person shall become a Senator or Deputy:
a. Who is not a Jordanian.
b. Who claims foreign nationality or protection.
c. Who was adjudged bankrupt and has not been legally discharged.
d. Who was interdicted and the interdiction has not been removed.
e. Who was sentenced to a term of imprisonment exceeding one year for a non-political
offence and has not been pardoned.
f. Who has a material interest in any contract, other than a contract or lease of land and
property, with any Department of Government, provided that this provision shall not
apply to any shareholder in a company of more than ten members.
g. Who is insane or an imbecile.
h. Who is related to the King within a degree of consanguinity to be prescribed by special
law.
(ii) Should any Senator or Deputy become disqualified during his term of office or should it appear
after his election that he lacks one or more of the qualifications provided for in the preceding
paragraph, his membership shall, by a resolution of two-thirds of the members of the House to
which he belongs, be considered non-existent and vacant, provided that such a resolution, if
passed by the Senate, is submitted to the King for ratification.
Article 76
Subject to the provisions of Article (52) of the present Constitution, no person shall be allowed to
be a member of either the Chamber of Deputies or the Senate and a holder of a public office at the
same time. Public office means every office whose holder receives his salary from public funds; it
includes municipal offices. Similarly, no person shall be allowed to be a member of both the
Chamber of Deputies and the Senate.
Article 77
Subject to the provisions of the present Constitution relating to the dissolution of the Chamber of
Deputies, the National Assembly shall hold one ordinary session during each year of its term.
Article 78
(i) * The King shall summon the National Assembly to an ordinary session on the first day of
October of each year or, if that day is an official holiday, on the first day following the official
holiday, provided that the King may, by Royal Decree published in the Official Gazette, postpone
for a period not exceeding two months the meeting of the Assembly to a date to be fixed by the
Royal Decree.
(ii) If the National Assembly is not summoned in accordance with the preceding paragraph, it shall
meet of its own motion as if it was so summoned.
(iii) ** The ordinary session of the National Assembly shall begin on the date upon which it was
summoned to meet in accordance with the two preceding paragraphs, and shall last for four
months unless the Chamber of Deputies is dissolved by the King before the expiration of that
period. The session may be prolonged by the King for a further period not exceeding three months
to allow for the despatch of pending matters. At the expiration of the four months or any such
prolongation thereof, the King shall prorogue the Assembly.
* As amended in the Official Gazette No.1179 of 17/4/1954.
** As amended in the Official Gazette
No. 1243 of 16/10/1955.
Article 79
The King shall inaugurate the ordinary session of the National Assembly by a Speech from the
Throne addressed to a joint meeting of the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies. He may deputise
the Prime Minister or any of the Ministers to perform the inauguration ceremony and deliver the
Speech from the Throne. Each of the two Houses shall submit a petition which shall contain its
Reply thereto.
Article 80
Every Senator and Deputy shall, before taking his seat, take an oath before his House in the
following terms:
"I swear by Almighty God to be loyal to the King and to the Country and to uphold the
Constitution, serve the Nation and duly perform the duties entrusted to me."
Article 81
(i) The King may by Royal Decree adjourn the session of the National Assembly for not more than
three times, or two times only if He had postponed the meeting of the National Assembly under
paragraph (i) of Article (78), provided that during any one session the period of such
postponement shall not exceed two months in the aggregate, including the period of
postponement. In computing the term of the session, the periods covered by any such adjournment
shall not be taken into account.
(ii) The Senate and the Chamber of Deputies may adjourn their session from time to time in
conformity with their own Internal Regulations.
Article 82
(i) The King may whenever necessary summon the National Assembly to meet in an extraordinary
session for an unspecified period for the purpose of deciding matters to be specified in the Royal
Decree when the summons are issued. An extraordinary session shall be prorogued by a Royal
Decree.
(ii) The King may summon the National Assembly to meet in an extraordinary session at the
request of an absolute majority of the deputies. Such request shall be contained in a petition
specifying the matters which it is desired to discuss.
(iii) The National Assembly shall not discuss in any extraordinary session except such matters as
are specified in the Royal Decree convening the session.
Article 83
The Senate and the Chamber of Deputies shall each make its Internal Regulations for the control
and organisation of its own proceedings and shall submit such Orders to the King for ratification.
Article 84
(i) * No meeting of either House shall be considered duly constituted unless attended by two-thirds
of the members of either House, and shall continue to be valid as long as an absolute majority of
the members of either House is present.
(ii) Resolutions by each of the two Houses shall be taken by a majority of votes of the members
present, excluding the Speaker, who shall not vote except where it is otherwise provided in the
present Constitution. In the case of equality of votes the Speaker shall have a casting vote.
(iii) If the voting is related to the Constitution or to a motion of no confidence in the Council of
Ministers or in a particular Minister, the votes shall be taken by calling the names of members in a
loud voice.
* As amended in the Official Gazette No. 1179 of 17/4/1954.
Article 85
The meetings of both the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies shall be public. Secret meetings may,
however, be convened at the request of the Government or of five Senators or Deputies. If such a
request is made, the Senate or Chamber of Deputies shall decide whether it should be accepted or
rejected.
Article 86
(i) No Senator or Deputy may be detained or tried during the currency of the sessions of the
National Assembly unless the House to which he belongs decides by an absolute majority that
there is sufficient reason for his detention or trial or unless he was arrested flagrant delicto. In the
event of his arrest in this manner, the House to which he belongs, shall be notified immediately.
(ii) If a member is detained for any reason while the National Assembly is not sitting, the Prime
Minister shall notify the Senate or the Chamber of Deputies when it reassembles of the proceedings
which were taken against him, coupled with the necessary explanation.
Article 87
Every Senator or Deputy shall have complete freedom of speech and expression of opinion within
the limits of the Internal Regulations of the Senate or Chamber of Deputies, as the case may be, and
shall not be answerable in respect of any vote which he had cast or opinion expressed or speech
made by him during the meetings of the House.
Article 88
* When a seat becomes vacant in the Senate or in the Chamber of Deputies by death or resignation
or for any other reason, it shall be filled by appointment in the case of a Senator and by the holding
of a by-election in the case of a deputy within a period of two months from the date on which the
Government is notified of the vacancy by the House. The term of the new member shall be for the
remaining part of the term of his predecessor.
However, if a seat in the Chamber of Deputies becomes vacant for any constituency for any reason
and should there be force majeure on account of which the Council of Ministers considers that
rendering a by election to fill that seat is impossible, the Chamber of Deputies, by the absolute
majority of its members and within one month of its being notified thereof, shall elect a member to
fill the said seat from amongst the inhabitants of the said constituency to who the provisions of the
Constitution are applicable and in the manner the Chamber deems appropriate.
* As amended in the Official Gazette No. 2414 dated 8/4/1973.
Article 89
(i) In addition to the circumstances under which the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies may hold
a joint meeting as prescribed in Articles (34), (79) and (92) of the present Constitution, both Houses
shall hold a joint meeting at the request of the Prime Minister.
(ii) When the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies hold a joint meeting, the meeting shall be
presided over by the Speaker of the Senate.
(iii) A joint meeting of the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies shall not be considered properly
constituted unless an absolute majority of the members of each House is present. Resolutions at
such a meeting shall be taken by a majority of the Senators and Deputies present, exclusive of the
Speaker who, in case of equality of votes, shall have a casting vote.
Article 90
No Senator or Deputy may be removed from his office except by a resolution of the House to
which he belongs, provided that, other than the case of disqualification and combination of offices
as prescribed in this Constitution and in the Electoral Law, the resolution to remove a Senator or
Deputy must be taken by a two-thirds majority of the House. If the resolution of removal concerns
a Senator, the resolution must be submitted to the King for ratification.
Article 91
The Prime Minister shall refer to the Chamber of Deputies any draft law, and the Chamber shall be
entitled to accept, amend, or reject the draft law, but in all cases the Chamber shall refer the draft
law to the Senate. No law may be promulgated unless passed by both the Senate and the Chamber
of Deputies and ratified by the King.
Article 92
Should either House twice reject any draft law and the other accept it, whether or not amended,
both the Senate and the Chamber shall hold a joint meeting under the chairmanship of the Speaker
of the Senate to discuss the matters in dispute. Acceptance of the draft law shall be conditional
upon the passing of a resolution by a two-thirds majority of the members of both Houses present.
If the draft law is rejected as described above, it shall not be placed again before the House during
the same session.
Article 93
(i) Every draft law passed by the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies shall be submitted to the
King for ratification.
(ii) A law shall come into force after its promulgation by the King and the lapse of thirty days from
the date of its publication in the Official Gazette unless it is specifically provided in that law that it
shall come into force on any other date.
(iii) If the King does not see fit to ratify a law, He may, within six months from the date on which
the law was submitted to him, refer it back to the House coupled with a statement showing the
reasons for withholding his ratification.
(iv) If any draft law (other than the Constitution) is referred back within the period specified in the
preceding paragraph and is passed for the second time by two-thirds of the members of each of the
Senate and the Chamber of Deputies, it shall be promulgated. If the law is not returned with the
Royal ratification within the period prescribed in paragraph (iii) above, it shall be considered as
promulgated and effective. If any draft law fails to obtain the two-thirds majority of votes, it
cannot be reconsidered during the same session, provided that the National Assembly may
reconsider the draft during its next ordinary session.
Article 94
(i) * In cases where the National Assembly is not sitting or is dissolved, the Council of Ministers
has, with the approval of the King, the power to issue provisional laws covering matters which
require necessary measures which admit of no delay or which necessitate expenditures incapable
of postponement. Such provisional laws, which shall not be contrary to the provisions of the
Constitution, shall have the force of law, provided that they are placed before the Assembly at the
beginning of its next session, and the Assembly may approve or amend such laws. In the event of
the rejection of such provisional laws, the Council of Ministers shall, with the approval of the King,
immediately declare their nullity, and from the date of such declaration these provisional laws
shall cease to have force provided that such nullity shall not affect any contracts or acquired rights.
(ii) Provisional laws shall have the same force and effect as laws enacted in accordance with
paragraph (ii) of Article (93) of this Constitution.
* As amended in the Official Gazette No. 1380 of 4/5/1958
Article 95
(i) * Any ten or more Senators or Deputies may propose any law. Such proposal shall be referred to
the committee concerned in the House for its views. If the House is of the opinion that the proposal
be accepted it shall refer it to the Government for drafting it in the form of draft law, and to submit
it to the House either during the same session or at the following session.
(ii) Any law proposed by Senators or Deputies in accordance with the preceding paragraph and
rejected by either House shall not be presented for a second time during the same session.
* As amended in the Official Gazette No. 1380 of 4/5/1958.
Article 96
Any Senator or Deputy may address questions or interpellations to the Ministers concerning any
public matters, in accordance with the provisions of the Internal Regulations of the Senate or the
House (as the case may be). No interpellation may be debated before the lapse of eight days from
the date of its receipt by the Minister, unless the case is of an urgent nature and the Minister agrees
to shorten this period.
CHAPTER SIX
The Judiciary
Article 97
Judges are independent, and in the exercise of their judicial functions they are subject to no
authority other than that of the law.
Article 98
Judges of the Civil and Sharia Courts shall be appointed and dismissed by a Royal Decree in
accordance with the provisions of the law.
Article 99
The courts shall be divided into three categories:
(i) Civil Courts
(ii) Religious Courts
(iii) Special Courts
Article 100
The establishment of the various courts, their categories, their divisions, their jurisdiction and
their administration shall be by virtue of a special law, provided that such law provides for the
establishment of a High Court of Justice.
Article 101
(i) The courts shall be open to all and shall be free from any interference in their affairs.
(ii) The sittings of the courts shall be public unless the court considers that it should sit in
camera in the interest of public order or morals.
Article 102
* The Civil Courts in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan shall have jurisdiction over all persons
in all matters, civil and criminal, including cases brought by or against the Government, except
those matters in respect of which jurisdiction is vested in Religious or Special Courts in
accordance with the provisions of the present Constitution ** or any other legislation in force.
* As amended in the Official Gazette No. 1380 of 4/5/1958.
** As Amended in the Official Gazette No. 1396 1/9/1958.
Article 103
(i) The Civil Courts shall exercise their jurisdiction in respect of civil and criminal matters in
accordance with the law for the time being in force in the Kingdom, provided that in matters
affecting the personal status of foreigners or in matters of a civil or commercial nature which in
accordance with international usage are governed by the law of another country, such law shall
be applied in the manner designated by the law.
(ii) Matters of personal status are those which are defined by law and in accordance therewith
fall within the exclusive jurisdiction of the Sharia Courts where the parties are Moslems.
* As amended in the Official Gazette No. 1380 of 4/5/1958.
** As Amended in the Official Gazette No. 1396 1/9/1958.
Article 104
The Religious Courts shall be divided into:
(i) The Sharia Courts
(ii) The Tribunals of other Religious Communities
Article 105
The Sharia Courts shall in accordance with their own laws have exclusive jurisdiction in respect
of the following matters:
(i) Matters of personal status of Moslems.
(ii) Cases concerning blood money (Diya) where the two parties are Moslems or where one of
the parties is not a Moslem and the two parties consent to the jurisdiction of the Sharia Courts.
(iii) Matters pertaining to Islamic Waqfs.
Article 106
The Sharia Courts shall in the exercise of their jurisdiction apply the provisions of the Sharia
law.
Article 107
The organisation of the affairs of Moslem Waqfs and the administration of their financial
matters, among other matters, shall be regulated by a special law.
Article 108
The Tribunals of Religious Communities are those for the non-Moslem religious communities
which have been or will be recognised by the Government as established in the Hashemite
Kingdom of Jordan.
Article 110
Special Courts shall exercise their jurisdiction in accordance with the provisions of the laws
constituting them.
Article 109
(i) Tribunals of Religious Communities shall be established in conformity with the provisions of
laws pertaining thereto. Such laws shall define the jurisdiction of such Tribunals in matters of
personal status and Waqfs constituted for the benefit of the community concerned. Matters of
personal status of any such community shall be the same matters as are, in the case of Moslems,
within the jurisdiction of the Sharia Courts.
(ii) Such laws shall determine the procedure to be followed by the Tribunals of the Religious
Communities.
CHAPTER SEVEN
Financial Matters
Article 111
No tax or duty may be imposed except by law. Taxes and duties shall not include the various
kinds of fees which the Treasury charges in respect of services rendered to members of the
public by Government Departments or in consideration of benefits accruing to them from the
State Domain. In imposing taxes, the Government shall be guided by the principles of
progressive taxation, coupled with the attainment of equality and social justice, provided that
taxation shall not exceed the capacity of tax-payers or the State's requirements for funds.
Article 112
(i) The draft law covering the General Budget shall be submitted to the National Assembly for
consideration in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution at least one month before
the beginning of the financial year.
(ii) Voting in respect of the budget shall take place on each chapter separately.
(iii) No sum falling within the expenditure section of the General Budget may be transferred
from one chapter to another except by law.
(iv) The National Assembly, when debating the General Budget draft law or the provisional
laws relating thereto, may reduce the expenditures under the various chapters in accordance
with what it considers to be in the public interest, but it shall not increase such expenditures
either by amendment or by the submission of a separate proposal. However, the Assembly may
after the close of the debate propose laws for the creation of new expenditures.
(v) During the debate of the General Budget, no proposal shall be accepted for the abrogation of
an existing tax or the creation of a new one or the amendment, whether by increase or
reduction, of existing taxes which are prescribed by financial laws in force, and no proposal
shall be accepted for amending expenditures or revenues fixed by contract.
(vi) The national revenues and expenditures estimated for each financial year shall be approved
by the General Budget Law, provided that said Law may provide for the allocation of any
special sums for a period exceeding one year.
Article 113
If it is not possible to enact the General Budget Law prior to the beginning of the new financial
year, expenditures shall continue by monthly appropriations at the rate of 1/12th of each month
of the previous year's budget.
Article 114
The Council of Ministers may, with the approval of the King, issue regulations for the control of
appropriations and expenditures of the public funds and the organisation of Government
stores.
Article 115
All receipts from taxes and other sources of Government revenue shall be paid into the
Treasury and shall be included in the Government budget save where otherwise provided by
law. No part of the funds of the Treasury may be appropriated or expended for any purpose
whatever except under the law.
Article 116
The Civil List of the King shall be paid from the General Revenue and shall be fixed in the
General Budget Law.
Article 117
Any concession granting a right for the exploitation of mines, minerals or public utilities shall
be sanctioned by law.
Article 118
No person shall be exempt from the payment of taxes or duties in circumstances other than
those prescribed by law.
Article 119
An Audit Office shall be set up by law for controlling the State's revenues, its expenses and the
manner of expenditure:
(i) The Audit Office shall submit to the Chamber of Deputies at the beginning of each ordinary
session, or whenever the Chamber demands, a general report embodying its views and
comments and indicating any irregularities committed and the responsibility arising therefrom.
(ii) The law shall provide for the immunity of the Head of the Audit Office.
CHAPTER EIGHT
General Provisions
Article 120
The administrative divisions of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, the establishment of the
Government Departments, their classification, designations, the plan of operations and the
manner of the appointment of civil servants, their dismissal, their discipline, supervision and
the limits of their competence and powers shall be determined by regulations issued by the
Council of Ministers with the approval of the King.
Article 121
Municipal and local council affairs shall be administered by municipal or local councils in
accordance with special laws.
Article 122
The High Tribunal provided for in Article (57) shall have the right to interpret the provisions of
the Constitution if so requested either by virtue of a decision of the Council of Ministers or by a
resolution taken by the Senate or the Chamber of Deputies passed by absolute majority. Such
interpretation shall be implemented upon its publication in the Official Gazette.
Article 123
(i) The Special Tribunal (Diwan Khass) may interpret the provisions of any law which have not
been interpreted by the courts if so requested by the Prime Minister.
(ii) The Special Tribunal shall consist of the President of the highest Civil Court as chairman,
two of its judges and one senior administrative official, who shall be appointed by the Council
of Ministers, as members. It shall also include a member delegated by the Minister concerned
from among the senior officials of the Ministry which is involved in the needed interpretation.
(iii) * The Special Tribunal shall give its decisions by a majority of votes.
(iv) Decisions given by the Special Tribunal and published in the Official Gazette shall have the
force of law.
(v) All other matters concerning the interpretation of laws shall be decided as they arise by the
courts of law in the usual course.
* As amended in the Official Gazette No. 1380 of 4/5/1958.
Article 124
In the event of an emergency necessitating the defence of the Kingdom, a law, which shall be
known as the Defence Law, shall be enacted giving power to the person specified therein to take
such actions and measures as may be necessary, including the suspension of the operation of
the ordinary laws of the State, with a view to ensuring the defence of the Kingdom. The Defence
Law shall come into force upon its proclamation by a Royal Decree to be issued on the basis of a
decision of the Council of Ministers.
Article 125
(i) In the event of an emergency of such a serious nature that action under the preceding Article
of the present Constitution will be considered insufficient for the defence of the Kingdom, the
King may by a Royal Decree, based on a decision of the Council of Ministers, declare martial
law in the whole or any part of the Kingdom.
(ii) When martial law is declared, the King may by a decree issue such orders as may be
necessary for the defence of the Kingdom, notwithstanding the provisions of any law in force.
Persons charged with the implementation of such orders shall continue to be subject to legal
liability for all acts committed by them under the provisions of any such laws until they are
relieved of such responsibility by a special law to enacted for the purpose.
Article 126
(i) The procedure prescribed in the present Constitution with regard to draft laws shall apply to
any draft law for the amendment of this Constitution, provided that any such amendment is
passed by a two- thirds majority of the members of each of the Senate and the Chamber of
Deputies. In the event of a joint meeting of the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies in
accordance with Article (92) of this Constitution, the amendment shall be passed by a two-
thirds majority of the members of both Houses, provided that in both cases the amendment
shall not come into force unless ratified by the King.
(ii) No amendment of the Constitution affecting the rights of the King and the succession to the
Throne may be passed during the period of Regency.
Article 127
The duties of the Army shall be confined to the defence of the Kingdom and its safety.
(i) Recruitment to the Army, its organisation and the rights and duties of its personnel shall be
defined by law.
(ii) The organisation of the police and gendarmerie, including their powers, shall be defined by
law.
CHAPTER NINE
Enforcement and Repeal of Laws
Article 128
All laws, regulations and other legislative acts in force in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan on
the date on which this Constitution comes into force shall continue to be in force until they are
repealed or amended by the legislation issued thereunder.
Article 129
(i) The Constitution of Jordan issued on the 7th December, 1946, together with all amendments
thereto, are hereby repealed.
(ii) The Palestine Order-in-Council for the Year 1922 and the amendments thereto are hereby
repealed.
(iii) The repeals referred to in the preceding two paragraphs shall not affect the validity of any
law or regulation made or act done thereunder prior to the coming into force of the provisions
of the present Constitution.
Article 130
The provisions of the present Constitution shall come into force on the date of its publication in
the Official Gazette.
Article 131
The Council of Ministers shall be charged with the execution of the provisions of the present
Constitution.
Signatures
Tawfiq Abul Huda
Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs
Sa'id El-Mufti
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior
Mohammad Amin Shanqiti
Chief Justice
Ruhi Abdul Hadi
Minister of Education
Suleiman Sukkar
Minister of Commerce and Economy
Anestas Hanania
Minister of Justice, Development and Reconstruction
Jamil Tutunji
Minister of Health and Social Affairs
Hashem Jayousi
Minister of Communications
Suleiman Abdul Razzak Touqan
Minister of Agriculture and Defence
Abdul Halim Hmoud
Minister of Finance