Journalist Hiba Abu Taha sentenced to one year in prison in Jordan

JournalismPakistan.com | Published: 14 June 2024

Hiba Abu Taha, a journalist in Jordan, has been sentenced to one year in prison for her investigative report under a contentious cybercrime law. The ruling has sparked widespread condemnation from press freedom organizations.
Summary

AMMAN—The Coalition for Women in Journalism (CFWIJ) has strongly condemned the sentencing of Jordanian journalist Hiba Abu Taha to one year in prison. Abu Taha's sentencing, announced under Jordan's controversial cybercrime law, follows her investigative report on the land corridor between Jordan and Israel.

CFWIJ tweeted, "#Jordan: Women Press Freedom strongly condemns the sentencing of #HibaAbuTaha to 1 year in prison for her investigative report on the land corridor between Jordan and Israel. This verdict, under Jordan's controversial cybercrime law, is a blatant attack on free speech and journalistic integrity. We demand her immediate release."

The investigative piece in question delved into the socio-political implications of the land corridor project, which has been a contentious issue in Jordan. Critics argue that the project could compromise Jordanian sovereignty and benefit only a select few.

CFWIJ's condemnation echoes broader concerns about press freedom in Jordan. The cybercrime law, implemented in 2015, has been criticized for its vague language and broad scope, which many believe are used to suppress dissent and limit free speech. According to Human Rights Watch, the law has been increasingly employed to target journalists, activists, and social media users.

The international journalism community has rallied in support of Abu Taha, calling for her immediate release and urging Jordan to review its cybercrime law to align with international standards of free expression. Amnesty International has also voiced its concerns, highlighting the chilling effect such laws have on investigative journalism and the public's right to information.

"This sentencing is not just about Hiba Abu Taha; it’s about the broader implications for press freedom in Jordan," said a spokesperson from the Committee to Protect Journalists. "Journalists must be able to report on issues of public interest without fear of retribution."

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