Criminal and Civil Liability for Hate Crimes Committed via Digital Platforms and Modern Media in Jordanian Legislation
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35516/Hum.2026.11104Keywords:
freedom of expression, criminal legislation, digital media, online platforms, hate crimes.Abstract
Research objectives: This study aimed to analyze the provisions of the Jordanian Cybercrime Law No. 17 of 2023 about hate crimes and their consistency and clarity with the general provisions of the Penal Code and other relevant legislations. It also aimed to suggest amendments to facilitate the regulation of the extensive legal terminology used in regard to the media in this context, especially the use of modern media.
Methods: The study uses a descriptive-analytical method, which involve presentation of the concept of hate crimes from the angle of law and analysis of the legal texts. It also analyzed the judicial precedents and legal opinions applicable to these kinds of offenses, besides explaining the civil liability that may follow a criminal offense.
Conclusions: The findings of the study led to the conclusion that there is no definite definition of hate crime in the Jordanian Cybercrime Law. The absence of definition can result in various interpretations or applications of elements pertaining to the criminalization of hate speech in Law No. 17 of 2023.
Recommendations: The study recommended a number of amendments to current laws, the most prominent of which was the addition of a definition of hate crimes to Article 2 of the Jordanian Cybercrime Law. It also recommended to establish clear legal boundaries to the scope of criminalization, striking a balance between combating hate speech and freedom of opinion and expression, in line with constitutional guarantees and international covenants and standards.
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