The Jordanian Labor Watch has warned that the phenomenon of child labor in Jordan continues to worsen due to the continued implementation of “unfair” economic policies that have led to an increase in poverty and unemployment rates.

The Phenix Center for Economics & Informatics Studies warned of the negative consequences stemming from the ongoing dispute between the Jordan Medical Association and insurance companies over a new medical fee schedule, which came into effect last Saturday. The center emphasized that Jordanian citizens are the most affected by this conflict.

The Jordanian Labor Watch welcomed the proposed amendments to the Agricultural Workers Law, especially the repeal of Article 15, which excluded male and female workers employed by employers in the agricultural sector who employ three or fewer workers from a number of their rights to social security, holidays, vacations, and working hours.

A specialized study recommended the need to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of targeting older people in Jordan with social protection systems, and to develop a comprehensive frame of reference for all entities that provide cash assistance to them.

Experts stressed that there are many challenges related to financing, regulation, and legislation that stand in the way of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Jordan switching to alternative energy.