17 Jan 2019 | 02:43 PM UTC
Jordan: Protests expected in Amman January 17 /update 13
Protests expected in Amman January 17 at Fourth Circle and National Center for Human Rights; heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions to be anticipated
Event
Protests are to be expected in Amman on the evening (local time) of Thursday, January 17, to denounce a recently passed income tax law and other IMF-backed government reforms. Demonstrators are expected to rally near Fourth Circle and police cordons are possible in the vicinity of the gathering. A related protest reportedly began on Thursday afternoon at the nearby National Center for Human Rights, with demonstrators denouncing the arrest of an anti-government protester at Fourth Circle in December 2018.
Similar protests are to be expected in the capital over the coming weeks. Associated transportation disruptions, along with heightened security measures, are expected in the vicinity of any demonstration. Clashes between protesters and police forces cannot be ruled out.
Context
Protests have been held every Thursday since December 13 to denounce IMF-backed austerity measures, a cybercrime law, and current economic and political policies. Critics have claimed that the IMF-backed austerity measures, including a recently passed income tax law, will exacerbate economic inequality in Jordan and disproportionately impact the lower and middle classes. Security forces clashed with protesters during previous protests, using tear gas to disperse crowds. Organizers have indicated demonstrations will continue until the new legislative measures and reforms are reversed.
Advice
Individuals in Jordan, particularly those 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.
