Judicial Reform and the Possibility of Democratic Rule in Jordan: A Policy Perspective on Judicial Independence

Abstract Studying the independence of Jordan's judiciary provides an opportunity for appreciating current structural impediments to democratic governance and economic reform. In this article, judicial independence is critically explored through an examination of Jordan's legal system, its political culture as well as regional and international policy initiatives. A number of suggestions are advanced in a bid to encourage ongoing dialogue about the central role an independent judiciary must play in advancing the interests of all stakeholders in future reform efforts whether in Jordan or the wider Arab region.