By Hani Hazaimeh

AMMAN - Representatives of local civil societies organisations gathered on Monday to discuss amendments to the Societies Law recommended by the "Towards Effective and Influential Associations" campaign.

During the conference, participants discussed the campaign's proposed amendments to the controversial 2008 Societies Law, which the government withdrew from Parliament in January, pending further discussion with stakeholders.

The campaign, conducted between March and June 2009, was organised by the National Centre for Human Rights (NCHR) in cooperation with German nonprofit organisation the Friedrich Naumann Foundation (FNF).

In an address to attendees, NCHR President Adnan Badran said the establishment and membership of associations are “civil rights guaranteed by international conventions and the Kingdom's constitution” and contributes to democratic reform.

"Despite several amendments to laws governing public rights, a comprehensive study is still required. The practical implementation of these laws unveiled many restraints on human rights," Badran said, stressing that amendments to any law must be carried out in consultation with the parties concerned.

Speaking on behalf of the Kingdom's charity organisations, Aqaba Charity Associations Rapporteur Khaled Maaytah said legislation governing charity work must take into account the large segment of the community effected.

"Article 16 of the Jordanian Constitution states that Jordanians have the right to establish or join associations. The Societies Law should administer this right and not undermine charity and voluntary efforts," Maaytah said, adding that the initial amendments to the law give the government the authority to interfere in the associations' business.

FNF Resident Representative Ralf Erbel briefed conference participants on the campaign's goals, adding that the campaign prompted NGOs to acquire a greater understanding of relevant international standards for the freedom of associations.

The campaigners also recommended the establishment of an independent authority for associations, and the registration of associations placed under the responsibility of an independent body comprising representatives from both charity organisations and the government.