Jordan, Denmark extend partnership to advance human rights

AMMAN — The Danish-Arab Partnership Programme (DAPP) on Tuesday announced the relaunch of its plan for another five years to continue promoting reform processes to strengthen long-term stability, prosperity and progress in Jordan, a DAPP statement said 

During the launch ceremony, attended by high-ranking government officials and leading civil society stakeholders, the government’s coordinator for human rights, Basel Tarawneh, stressed that this multiparty cooperation is “an expression of the government in promoting human rights and dialogue”. 

He said His Majesty King Abdullah’s government has been committed to developing the national human rights system through partnerships and dialogue with international partners to improve the performance of the public institutions in the service of citizens, according to the statement.

Since 2003, DAPP has been the flagship programme for Danish support to the region, addressing current challenges such as the high unemployment rate, especially among young people, while supporting the continued advancement of human rights standards.

Together with Jordanian partners, DAPP has been supporting political and economic youth engagement, job creation, promotion of women’s rights, strengthening of independent media and efforts against torture, the statement said.

DIGNITY, one of the civil society organisations supported by DAPP, works for the advancement of human rights, including the prevention of torture, according to the statement.

DIGNITY Country Representative Lubna Nasser said during the event: “Our partners’ ownership and commitment to the fight against torture is what makes the difference in pushing for a better Jordan every single day.”

The new phase builds on existing partnerships between Jordanian and Danish organisations, including human rights institutions, women’s rights organisations, media organisations, and trade unions. 

Head of the Danish Programme Office in Jordan, Anne Kahl stated: “The partnerships between Jordanian and Danish organisations are at the core of our efforts. The exchange of experience, knowledge and networks is what really boosts impact and sustainability.”