Electronic Signatures and Their Evidentiary Value: A Comparative Study between Jordanian Legislation, the UNCITRAL Model, and European Regulations
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35516/Law.2026.13604Keywords:
Digital Signature, Electronic Transactions, Electronic Evidence, Jordanian Electronic Transactions Law, eIDAS RegulationAbstract
Objectives: This study examines the regulation and use of digital signatures in Jordan and evaluates the adequacy of the legal, institutional, and technical framework. It also compares Jordanian legislation with UNCITRAL models and the European eIDAS Regulation to identify strengths and gaps.
Methods: A descriptive approach was used to analyze legal texts, alongside a comparative approach with international models. The study draws on Jordanian laws, judicial decisions, official reports, prior studies, and a case study of the Ministry of Justice’s “Sanad” system.
Results: The study finds that Jordan has established a legal framework for digital signatures; however, it suffers from ambiguity in certain definitions and limitations in recognizing the legal validity of electronic evidence, along with weaknesses in institutional controls and technical infrastructure. The comparison with the eIDAS Regulation reveals differences in the recognition of qualified signatures, the accreditation mechanisms for trust service providers, and cross-border recognition procedures. The “Sanad” experience is considered a positive step, yet it still requires further legislative, technical, and awareness enhancements.
Conclusion: The study recommends updating Jordanian legislation to adopt clearer definitions and accreditation mechanisms for qualified signatures, strengthening the security infrastructure (PKI), establishing a supervisory framework for trust service providers, and implementing training and awareness programs for judges, lawyers, and government entities to enhance trust in electronic transactions.
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