Jordan: Demonstrations in Amman on September 28-29

Event

Civil society groups have called for demonstrations to be held in the capital Amman on Friday, September 28, and Saturday, September 29. On September 28, demonstrators are expected to gather near the Al-Husseini Mosque after Dhuhr prayers at approximately 13:00 (local time) to protest new tax legislation backed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). On September 29, a demonstration is expected from 18:00 to 20:00 in front of the Professional Association Complex to denounce the construction of the Israel-Jordan gas pipeline. Heightened security measures and traffic disruptions are expected in the vicinity of demonstration sites.

Context

The International Monetary Fund (IMF)-backed measures are part of a three-year initiative aimed at reducing the country's debt, which remains at 95 percent of gross domestic product (GDP).

In September 2016, Jordan's national oil company NEPCO struck a 15-year deal with Israel to purchase USD 10 billion worth of natural gas supplies. A pipeline between Jordan and Israel was consequently planned to transport these resources. Numerous protests have already been held to denounce the project, with critics claiming that Jordan can produce sufficient solar, shale, and wind energy to negate the need to import gas from Israel. The pipeline demonstrations come after a wave of nationwide protests that took place in late May and early June to denounce International Monetary Fund-backed austerity measures - including tax and price hikes - aimed at reducing the country's debt. Dozens of people were wounded and arrested, prompting King Abdullah II to ask for the resignation of then-Prime Minister Hani Mulki.

Advice

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