Security Overview for Jordan

The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is a Western-leaning, secular constitutional monarchy on friendly terms with the US, UK, and most Western countries at the governmental level. More than 96 percent of the population is Sunni Muslim. About 4 percent is Christian, mostly belonging to the Greek Orthodox Church. There are small communities of Shia', Druze, and Bahai. There are substantial populations of Palestinian-Jordanians and Iraqi refugees.

The terrorism threat in Jordan is moderate. As is true throughout the region, there are intermittent periods of heightened risk based upon geopolitical events. Jordanian security forces have proven adept at containing terrorist threats in the Kingdom, thwarting a series of planned attacks against domestic and foreign interests over the years. Militant groups, however, succeeded in staging two attacks in the second half of 2005 - a hotel bombing in Amman and rocket attacks in Aqaba. The threat of future attacks remains, even as violence in Iraq subsides.

The violent crime rate in Jordan is moderate, though petty crime is on the rise. Petty theft and pickpocketing are a constant concern throughout the country, especially in areas frequented by tourists, including downtown areas of Amman. Follow common sense precautions and stay away from disreputable districts; avoid dark areas at night and be alert for pickpockets and muggers. While public transportation is generally safe, petty crime is a concern.

As a result of the increase in Islamist fundamentalism in Jordan, sexual harassment of and assaults on Western women are on the increase. Women should dress conservatively with arms and chest covered and travel with a male companion at all times.

Most demonstrations are relatively peaceful and are accompanied by a large police presence. Demonstrations frequently occur in connection with Israeli military incursions into the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. Since the 2010-2011 revolutions in Egypt and Tunisia, demonstrations have frequently focused on political and economic reforms. The Islamic Action Front (IAF) opposition party and the Professional Association Council stage the vast majority of demonstrations. Demonstrations frequently take place near the Israeli Embassy in the Rabia neighborhood, as well as the US Embassy, the Professional Association Council building, and the United Nations Headquarters in Shmeisani, Amman. During protests, avoid university campuses and maintain a high state of awareness, especially following mid-day Friday prayers. Avoid Palestinian refugee camps at all times. Avoid travel to areas near the border with Iraq.

While there have been no reported incidents of foreigners being kidnapped in Jordan, a moderate threat to Westerners exists.

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How we determine a country's overall security rating

Each country's current overall risk rating is determined by considering categorical assessments in kidnapping, crime, security services, civil unrest, terrorism and geopolitical stability.

Minimal Threat

Most countries in this category have a stable political infrastructure and economic system with a low rate of unemployment. These countries have overall low rates of crime. Violent crime is almost non-existent. Petty crimes do occur, but are usually limited to petty theft and pick pocketing. Police and military services are trained and trustworthy, but may lack investigative and crime fighting equipment and skills. Strikes and demonstrations are rare and if they occur are usually well planned and managed and rarely spurn violent incidents. There are no known insurgent or terrorist groups.

Low Threat

Most countries in this category will have a stable political infrastructure and economic system with some unemployment. These countries have low crime rates. Violent crimes are rare and usually involve associated persons. Petty crimes such as theft and pick pocketing are a concern and travelers may be directly targeted. Risks can usually be mitigated with simple security measures. Police and military services are well trained and trustworthy but may lack adequate investigative equipment. Incidents of civil unrest such as strikes and demonstrations may disrupt daily life, but are usually non-violent and well coordinated. These countries may experience rare instances of domestic terrorist activity but are not threatened by international terrorism. Anti-government groups may be present but have little or no impact.

Moderate Threat

Most countries in this category will have a somewhat stable political infrastructure and economic system but unemployment and rising inflation cause some instability. These countries have moderate levels of crime. Violent crimes such as sexual assault and murder occur, but few are random incidents. Petty crimes, especially theft or destruction of unattended property, are common. Incidents of armed assault also occur. More threatening crimes are usually limited to urban areas or certain parts of the country. Police and military services may suffer from corruption and lack of training, but are generally adequate for investigations. Strikes and demonstrations can disrupt daily life and may easily spur violence. This country may have a variety of anti-government and domestic terrorist groups that are organized and outspoken against the government and may conduct incidents of violence. Small cells of international terrorist organizations exist but incidents of terrorism are not common.

High Threat

Most countries in the category have unstable political infrastructure and economic system with high rates of unemployment and inflation. Violent and petty crimes are common in most areas and random acts of violence do occur. Some areas may have a general state of lawlessness. Traveling alone, especially at night, should be avoided. There will be a large infiltration of arms in the population. Police and military services lack training and equipment. Both institutions are prone to corruption. Strikes and demonstrations are common and usually violent. Domestic terrorist and insurgent groups are active and well organized. They conduct bombings and other violent acts against government, local and international interests. International terrorist groups exist and may conduct activities within the country and abroad. The country may be involved in cross border warfare.

Extreme Threat

Most countries in this category lack a political infrastructure with any democratic premise and have a high rate of corruption. The economy is unstable with a high rate of unemployment. There is a very high rate of violent and petty crime. A general state of lawlessness exists in most urban and remote areas. Overland travel through the country must be avoided. Many domestic terrorist or rebel groups exist and are frequently active; areas of the country may be controlled by rebel factions. International terrorist operations may be well organized and active. Anti- government actions and large demonstrations are common and violent. Cross border and internal warfare occur.