Jordan: Nationwide strike over income tax bill May 30

Event

Jordanian trade unions, professional associations, and other activists are planning on staging a nationwide strike on Wednesday, May 30, in protest of a proposed income tax bill. The strike comes after members of the Council of Jordanian Trade Unions failed to reach a deal with Prime Minister Hani al-Mulki over the proposed measures on Saturday, May 26. Associated protests, heightened security measures, and associated business and transportation disruptions are expected on May 30, particularly in Amman. Additional protests are possible as the Jordanian parliament considers an amended version of the bill in the coming days.

Context

Several protests have been held in Jordan in recent months over tax and price hikes. Notably, protests broke out after the Jordanian government increased the prices of fuel and bread, as well as the value-added tax on various consumer goods such as cigarettes, carbonated drinks, and jewelry in January 2018. In February, the government also announced hikes to public transport fares, including taxis and buses, and electricity and oil prices, leading to more demonstrations. Similar increases in consumer prices in 2017 also prompted an eruption of protests.

Advice

Individuals in Jordan are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.