"You Have Come a Long Way Woman" A sparkle slogan without realistic meaning Woman Status in Jordan

Abstract

This research paper discusses woman status in the country of Jordan in terms of rights, equality and personal liberties, freedom of choice in particular. It argues that, although Jordan is working hard to be open to Western values and civilization; however, it lags behind when it comes to woman liberty and equality. Jordan is a patriarchal society, decisions at every level whether at work, home, school and so forth belong to man. Man’s authority is empowered by tribal traditions and culture which do not recognize woman as a society builder with man, nor any of her rights. This mentality against woman is supported by the Jordanian laws, article 290, and article 308 of penal law in particular. Results reveal that Jordan has a long way to go in order to have woman be an equal citizen. In addition, woman activists and many ordinary citizens are demanding the government and parliament to have reforms in the Jordanian legislation system by which certain articles in the penal system be removed.

Key words: Jordan,  Honor crime, Articles 290,308 of penal law