In an era of fast technology innovation, protecting digital human rights has emerged as a critical problem. Al Masadeh et al.’s essay Digital Human Rights in Jordanian Legislation and International Agreement (2024) examines the changing landscape of digital rights, with an emphasis on Jordan’s legislative framework and its compatibility with international standards. The article discusses several aspects of digital rights, such as access to information, freedom of expression, data protection, and privacy, and compares them in the context of both local and global legal systems.

One of the article’s main claims is that accessibility to the internet is a vital digital human right. Al Masadeh et al. (2024) propose that internet connection should be universally available at a low cost and without discrimination, emphasizing the necessity of infrastructure and digital content availability. The article supports open, high-speed internet connections to promote digital rights, which is consistent with international human rights standards (UN Human Rights, 2002). Governments must ensure that the digital gap does not limit access because of race, gender, or social status. This viewpoint is consistent with broader digital human rights frameworks that advocate for equitable access to the digital environment (Mathiesen, 2014).

Furthermore, the article discusses the right to freedom of expression, particularly in the digital environment. The authors address how Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) protects freedom of expression and how governments might apply restrictions in certain circumstances, such as national security or public order (UN Human Rights, 2002). This flexible approach guarantees that digital platforms remain open spaces for free communication while protecting the public interest.

As technology progresses, individuals’ data becomes more exposed to breaches. According to Al Masadeh et al. (2024), governments must defend digital privacy to ensure the confidentiality and security of personal data. This approach is supported by Jordan’s Personal Data Protection Law of 2021, which establishes a legal framework for data management and processing while ensuring that individuals’ digital rights are protected (Nemer et al., 2023). Similarly, Jordan’s Cybersecurity Law No. (16) of 2019 focuses on safeguarding persons from cybercrime and securing vital infrastructures, both of which are essential components of digital human rights (Al-Flaieh, 2024).

Finally, the article emphasizes the need for encryption as a means of protecting digital communication. Encryption enables people to express themselves safely, keeping their communications private and shielded from unlawful access. This is strongly related to the larger idea of cybersecurity, in which encryption is critical for securing sensitive data (Rodgers, 2019).

Finally, Al Masadeh et al. (2024) provide an in-depth study of Jordan’s digital human rights situation, linking local legal changes to international human rights norms. The article emphasizes the necessity for strong legal frameworks to confront the difficulties created by rapid technology breakthroughs. While Jordan has made progress in preserving digital rights, additional efforts are required to assure broad access, privacy, and freedom in the digital age.

References:

Al Masadeh, A., Khawaldeh, A. M., & Al-Salamat, M. A. (2024). Digital human rights in Jordanian legislation and international agreements. International Journal of Cyber Criminology, 18(1), 48-51.

Al-Flaieh, A. (2024). Jordan Cyber Security Law No. (16) of 2019: Enhancing national security in the digital realm. Jordanian News Agency.

Nemer, M., et al. (2023). Jordan Personal Data Protection Law of 2021: Balancing privacy with digital advancement.

Rodgers, J. (2019). The right to encryption: Securing communication in the digital age. International Law Journal. UN Human Rights. (2002). International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, Article 19.