The Return of a Heated Debate: Jordan’s New Firearms and Ammunition Bill

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By Khalil Haddadin

04-Aug 2019

Jordan and the Spread of Weapons: A Crossroads?

Once again, a heated debate is dominating Jordan’s public sphere — this time ignited by the government’s proposed Firearms and Ammunition Bill, set for discussion in Parliament’s upcoming extraordinary session.

The bill’s most striking provision restricts all dealings in firearms and ammunition to the armed forces, security agencies, and public sector employees. It also bans the possession, sale, or import of hunting rifles with either fixed or detachable magazines. Most controversially, it requires citizens to surrender both licensed and unlicensed firearms within six months of the law’s approval and publication in the Official Gazette.

This sweeping change has sharply divided public opinion. Supporters and opponents — including retired senior officials, civilian leaders, and influential tribal figures — have all stepped into the fray. Jordan’s tribes, in particular, have historically played a central role in shaping the modern state, embodying a unique fusion of institutional governance and vibrant tribal heritage

Supporters’ Perspective

Once again, a heated debate is dominating Jordan’s public sphere — this time ignited by the government’s proposed Firearms and Ammunition Bill, set for discussion in Parliament’s upcoming extraordinary session.

The bill’s most striking provision restricts all dealings in firearms and ammunition to the armed forces, security agencies, and public sector employees. It also bans the possession, sale, or import of hunting rifles with either fixed or detachable magazines. Most controversially, it requires citizens to surrender both licensed and unlicensed firearms within six months of the law’s approval and publication in the Official Gazette.

This sweeping change has sharply divided public opinion. Supporters and opponents — including retired senior officials, civilian leaders, and influential tribal figures — have all stepped into the fray. Jordan’s tribes, in particular, have historically played a central role in shaping the modern state, embodying a unique fusion of institutional governance and vibrant tribal heritage

Opponents’ Perspective

Critics, however, question the bill’s timing, suggesting potential links to broader regional developments, such as the “Deal of the Century” and its implications for Jordan. They see private firearms as historically intertwined with the army’s role in safeguarding national identity.

Gun ownership, they argue, is more than a matter of utility — it is a tradition rooted in the honor and pride of past generations. Disarmament, in their eyes, would strip away a symbol of heritage and autonomy. Instead of confiscation, they call for stricter penalties on misuse.

They also stress the importance of evidence-based policymaking. Before such a sweeping measure is undertaken, they argue, the government should conduct comprehensive studies into the causes of firearm misuse. Such research could shape a smarter, more targeted approach to regulation, avoiding a collision course with powerful social forces.

Yet, with Parliament preparing to debate the bill, no official collection mechanism has been announced. Critics point out that the government appears ill-equipped — financially, logistically, and legally — to enforce the law without sparking a confrontation with tribal communities.

Why Now?

Much of the opposition stems from a deeper problem: a lack of public trust in government. Mishandling a project of this scale could trigger repercussions far beyond the intended scope — destabilizing security, damaging the economy, and inflaming political tensions.

Would the state resort to force if citizens, especially those with unlicensed weapons, refuse to comply? Could the bill provoke an unintended backlash, even civil unrest? If so, the resulting instability could be seized upon by criminal networks, drug traffickers, or extremist groups. Former senior security officials note that most major drug and terrorism cases in Jordan involve locally traded weapons.

This leads to two pressing questions:
What is the true driver behind introducing such a controversial bill, with all its potential pitfalls?
And, perhaps most importantly — why now?