The Geneva Council for Rights and Liberties expresses concern over Jordan’s frequent use of military courts as a means to commit human rights violations, including arbitrary detention, denial of fair trial standards, and the absence of judicial independence, all under the pretext of counterterrorism.
The council highlights the ongoing detention of Jordanian citizen Ahmed Barakat since March 9, 2024, and his trial before the State Security Court (a military court) on charges related to supporting terrorism, which could result in severe sentences.
According to sources with official connections, Barakat was subjected to psychological and physical pressure, as well as intimidation violating human rights standards. He was subsequently coerced into signing a “preliminary investigative statement” without access to a lawyer or any form of legal representation.
These sources indicate that Barakat’s confession was extracted under duress and includes elements that could incriminate him under Jordan’s loosely defined Anti-Terrorism Law.
Jordanian authorities have charged Barakat with “committing acts that undermine public order” and “possessing explosive materials with the intent to use them unlawfully,” alleging that he attempted to transfer an advanced Katyusha rocket to the occupied West Bank for use by Palestinian factions.
The Geneva Council for Rights and Liberties underscores that the State Security Court in Jordan, which handles Barakat’s case and those of many other arbitrarily detained individuals, is not recognized internationally due to its composition of military judges bound by the hierarchical structure of the state’s military chain of command, compromising its impartiality and independence.
The council reiterates that military courts are intended solely for cases involving military personnel and should not prosecute civilians. It calls on Jordanian authorities to cease this practice and fulfill their obligations under international human rights principles.
The Geneva Council for Rights and Liberties urges Jordanian authorities to end Barakat’s arbitrary detention and ensure his full legal rights during his trial, including dismissing any coerced confessions as they were obtained through legally flawed methods.
Additionally, it demands an end to arbitrary arrests and detentions of Jordanian citizens and activists following their participation in pro-Palestinian demonstrations across the country since the onset of Israel’s war on Gaza on October 7, 2023. Authorities are urged to adhere to constitutional and international commitments by safeguarding the right to free expression, peaceful assembly, and a safe space for public discourse.
