This report analyzes the status of women’s access to justice in Jordan, with a particular focus on the Shari’a court system. Through a review of relevant laws, research, and international conventions, it identifies legal, social, and institutional barriers to women’s access to justice.
At the same time, it traces gaps in the justice system related to: legal aid services; economic and human resources; and gender sensitivity. The report proposes a framework of inquiry – based on international experiences – that allows for systematic analysis of women’s access to justice in Jordan.
Additionally, it offers key analytical recommendations for facilitating women’s access to justice by way of increased gender sensitivity, enhanced dispute resolution and enforcement mechanisms, and quality legal support services. With continued coordination between institutional and civil society stakeholders, an enabling environment for women’s access to justice can be established with an adequate supply of institutional resources to facilitate the process and meet current demands.