Amman: The Minister of Justice, Dr. Bassam Talhouni, announced that his ministry oversaw the implementation of approximately 3,700 alternatives to carceral punishments in 2024. This move aligns with the current government's commitment to broadening the use of non-custodial measures.
According to Jordan News Agency, the ministry has partnered with multiple accredited entities by signing 20 memoranda of understanding. These agreements aim to secure venues and rehabilitation programs designed to correct the behavior of those benefiting from these alternative punishments. Dr. Talhouni emphasized that these alternatives are among the key innovative solutions that are potentially more effective in achieving justice goals while mitigating the negative effects of traditional custodial sentences.
Dr. Talhouni's statements were made during a symposium organized by the Ministry of Justice, in collaboration with the Justice Center for Legal Aid (JCLA), titled "Alternatives to Custodial Sentences." The minister highlighted that the event served as an opportunity to exchange knowledge and expertise to adopt best practices in the field.
He further elaborated on the role of criminal justice as a tool for maintaining societal balance, protecting rights and freedoms, ensuring security and peace, and rehabilitating individuals who have committed misdemeanors. The aim is to reintegrate these individuals into society effectively.
Dr. Talhouni also noted the challenges associated with reliance on custodial sentences, such as their negative impact on convicts, loss of livelihood, overcrowding in correctional facilities, financial costs, difficulties with societal reintegration, and cases of recidivism. In Jordan, alternative measures include community service, electronic monitoring through e-bracelets, community rehabilitation programs, and bans on visiting certain places.
The two-day symposium was attended by experts from Jordan and Bahrain, members of the Jordan Judicial Council, representatives of partner entities, the Public Security Directorate, and civil society institutions, as stated in a ministry release.