Where we work
Jordan
Why we work in Jordan
Gender inequality is one of the main barriers hindering a free, equal and democratic society for everyone in Jordan, irrespective of gender.
In 2024, only 14% of women participated in the labor force. This is one of the lowest rates in the world. Women’s labor force participation continues to be limited to certain sectors only, such as education, and health and social work. These percentages decline as women get older, and is one of the reasons that very few women take on leadership positions.
Women’s political participation is low. However, there has been improvements in recent years. . In 2024 women’s political representation increased to a historic high of 19.5%, up from 13.8% in the previous parliament. Women’s increased participation in political processes requires legal and policy reforms to eliminate discrimination, enhance women’s financial and educational inclusion, expand access to justice, reduce domestic violence, and improve safety for women in public spaces.
Gender-based violence (GBV) persists as a widespread issue due to its normalization within society and is rarely sanctioned by law. Sexual violence, which takes place in private and public spaces and includes sexual harassment and marital rape, is often treated with secrecy because of its direct connection to women’s reputations and that of their family. Equally, domestic violence is treated as a private matter for fear of tarnishing family reputation.
Despite legislation that exists to protect victims of violence, implementation remains a challenge.
WORKING FOR GENDER JUSTICE INTERNATIONALLY
Besides Jordan, KVINFO works for Gender Equality in Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Armenia, Moldova and Ukraine in the current strategy period.
Click on one of the countries above to read more about our work.
What we do
In Jordan, KVINFO works with feminist organizations to promote gender justice.
We work on issues related to GBV, equal political participation and engagement in public debate, tackling gender stereotypes and norms, producing knowledge on relevant issues and using that knowledge to conduct evidence-based advocacy for legislative reform and changes in harmful practices.
Examples of work with partners include:
- Preventing child, early and forced marriage
- Raising awareness among rights holders and duty bearers about rights
- Raising awareness on GBV, including technology-facilitated GBV, and gender stereotypes
- Promoting feminist leadership skills to galvanise campaigns and communities
- Supporting feminist schools
Who we work with
In Jordan, KVINFO works with two types of organisations.
The first type are big membership-based women’s rights organisations with broad outreach, well-established networks, and contacts with national politicians and other duty bearers.
The second type of organisations are small, often relatively newly established and specialised organisations. They are issue-based, agile and innovative, and develop, apply and adapt new methodologies. They are often localised with smaller reach but have the potential to scale up.
