Jordan to Overhaul NGO Law to Boost Transparency

Jordan's Ministry of Social Development is crafting a revised law for non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to enhance transparency and governance within the charitable and volunteer sector, according to a top official.

Nasser al-Shuraida, Secretary-General of the Registry of Charitable Associations, stated the amended law aims to set clear guidelines for the operation of associations and volunteer initiatives. He emphasized that the changes would not compromise the independence of associations, nor would they lead to the dissolution of any association except in accordance with legal provisions.

The updated framework will enable the evaluation and categorization of each association based on specific criteria, offering varied incentives based on performance levels. This initiative seeks to improve the efficiency and sustainability of charitable work, al-Shuraida noted.

Al-Shuraida highlighted that these efforts are designed to ensure resources are directed more effectively to beneficiaries, thereby bolstering public trust in charitable and volunteer work. The amended law will soon be ready for presentation to legislative bodies, he added.

Approximately 62% of charitable associations in Jordan, nearly 4,000 licensed under the ministry's supervision, fall under the purview of the Ministry of Social Development, focusing on providing aid and charitable services. Other associations specialize in diverse fields such as tourism, environment, health, and education, al-Shuraida said.