Jordan Labor Watch -
Front Line Defenders (FLD) Foundation expressed in a statement their strong disapproval of the Jordanian authorities' ongoing failure to take action regarding the reopening of the Jordanian Teachers syndicate.
Despite a court ruling on June 26, 2022, ordering the syndicate to be reopened and a temporary committee to be elected in accordance with the syndicate’s law, the authorities have not made any progress in implementing this decision.
FLD expresses concern about the lack of progress in restoring the rights of teachers and emphasizes that the continued closure not only deprives teachers of their rights but also hinders their ability to advocate for better working conditions and educational reforms.
Additionally, the foundation highlights a campaign of “retaliation” against teachers and syndicate members seeking improved wages and working conditions, including legal action, mass arrests, forced retirement, monitoring, and administrative detention.
The foundation recognizes that the Jordanian government's failure to adhere to the court's decision reflects a disregard for human rights, particularly amidst the shrinking space for civil society in Jordan. This undermines the right to form associations and freedom of speech.
Front Line Defenders urges the Jordanian government to fulfill its legal obligations by promptly reopening the syndicate and facilitating the election of a temporary committee to safeguard the rights and interests of teachers.
They also demand the protection of basic human rights and democratic freedoms for all members of Jordanian unions and human rights defenders, including freedom of speech, assembly, and association without fear of retaliation or unjust restrictions.
As per Article No. 27 of the Teacher's Syndicate Law, in case of dissolution, the Minister of Education is mandated to form a temporary committee and ensure the election of a new board of directors within six months.
It is worth noting that the Amman appellate court approved the dissolution of the syndicate council with the consent of the syndicate's work. This decision was made after the syndicate appealed the closure and disbandment of its board of directors by the public prosecutor.