Himam, a civil society coordinating coalition, denounced the detention of a group of unemployed protestors last Tuesday, as the group of protestors was on their way from Madaba Governorate to the capital, Amman, forcing them to return to Madaba.
The nine protesters were heading towards the sit-in in front of the Prime Ministry with the intention of participating in the demand for decent job opportunities. However, they were asked not to carry out the sit-in.
Himam affirms the right of all citizens to nonviolent protest, as it is a fundamental human right guaranteed by Article 16 of the Jordanian constitution as well as by international human rights conventions.
Moreover, Himam considered that barring the unemployed from carrying out their sit-in in front of the Prime Ministry is a violation of their rights. In addition, it amounts to a violation of the Jordanian government’s obligations under international law.
Himam stressed that respecting the right of freedom and expression, unionize and peaceful assembly is essential for maintaining social security and stability.