Article Review #2: Cybercrime Laws in Jordan and Freedom of Expression: A Critical
Examination of the Electronic Crimes Act 2023
Reviewed by: Aladj Redwood
Date: 11/17/24
Introduction
This article critically examines the Electronic Crimes Act 2023 in Jordan, focusing on its
implications for cybercrime and freedom of expression. The study highlights the intersection of law,
technology, and human rights, and how new cybercrime legislation impacts marginalized groups in
Jordan, particularly in the context of freedom of speech and the ability to express dissent online.
The article connects these issues to broader social science principles such as law and society,
power dynamics, and the digital divide.
Relation to Social Science Principles
The study engages with several key principles of the social sciences, particularly those concerning
law, power, and social justice. The Electronic Crimes Act is seen as a tool of governance,
influencing how the state manages cybercrime and freedom of expression. From a social science
perspective, the study explores the balance between security and individual freedoms, a classic
concern in political science. Additionally, it examines how marginalized groups—such as political
dissidents, journalists, and activists—may be disproportionately impacted by the law’s broad
application, potentially stifling dissent and restricting freedom of speech.
Research Questions and Hypotheses
The research question is: How does the Electronic Crimes Act 2023 affect freedom of expression in
Jordan, especially for marginalized groups? The article hypothesizes that while the law aims to
reduce cybercrime, it inadvertently limits free speech, particularly for those with political or social
grievances. The hypothesis suggests that the law’s broad definitions of cybercrime could lead to
the suppression of political expression under the guise of protecting national security.
Research Methods
The study employs a qualitative research methodology, analyzing legal texts, interviews with legal
experts and activists, and case studies of individuals prosecuted under the Electronic Crimes Act.
The authors also conducted a content analysis of media reports and social media posts to
understand the law’s real-world application and the concerns it raises among marginalized groups.
Data and Analysis
The data consists of legal case analyses, expert interviews, and public reactions to the Electronic
Crimes Act. The study uses thematic analysis to explore patterns in how the law is applied and how
it affects freedom of expression. By examining case studies of individuals affected by the law, the
researchers identify key themes of suppression, censorship, and the chilling effect on online
speech.
Relevance to Marginalized Groups

The article addresses how the Electronic Crimes Act 2023 disproportionately affects marginalized
groups, particularly those advocating for political change. Journalists, activists, and human rights
defenders are particularly vulnerable to prosecution under the law’s vague definitions of
cybercrime. This reflects the broader social science concern with how laws can be used to control
or silence marginalized voices in society.
Conclusion
The study contributes to the ongoing debate on the balance between national security and
individual rights, especially in authoritarian contexts. It highlights the unintended consequences of
cybercrime legislation on freedom of expression, particularly for marginalized groups in Jordan. The
findings suggest that while cybersecurity laws are necessary, they must be carefully crafted to avoid
infringing on fundamental rights. This research calls for a reevaluation of the Electronic Crimes Act
2023 to ensure it does not undermine democratic freedoms and expression.
References
Alaeldin Mansour Maghaireh.. Cybercrime Laws in Jordan and Freedom of Expression: A Critical
Examination of the Electronic Crimes Act 2023., Volume 18 Issue 1,