Authoritarianism in the Digital Age: The Cybercrime Law and the Erosion of Public Freedoms in Jordan

Abstract

Objectives: This study critically examines the political and legal dimensions of the 2023 Jordanian Cybercrime Law, with a focus on its effects on fundamental public freedoms, including freedom of expression, digital rights, and civic engagement. Methods: Utilizing a qualitative analytical framework, the study conducts a comprehensive review of constitutional provisions, reports from civil society organizations, and relevant international legal standards to assess the law’s implications for civil liberties, legal accountability, and democratic governance. Results: The analysis reveals that the Cybercrime Law incorporates vague and expansive terminology that facilitates state surveillance, arbitrary detention, and the suppression of dissent. These legal provisions have contributed to a pronounced contraction of civic space, emblematic of a broader strategy to consolidate authoritarian governance under the pretext of reform. Conclusion: The enactment of the 2023 Cybercrime Law constitutes a significant regression in Jordan’s political reform trajectory. To advance genuine democratic transformation, the study underscores the urgent need for comprehensive legal reforms, enhancement of judicial independence, and robust protections for civil society actors. Without such reforms, the law is poised to further erode public trust and entrench authoritarian practices under the guise of modernization efforts.