The Ministry of Social Development in Jordan has heightened efforts to combat begging during Ramadan, detaining 335 individuals thus far. Total apprehensions have reached 1,820 since the year began. The ministry urges donations through licensed charities instead of directly to beggars, emphasizing responsible giving. Reactions to the crackdown are mixed, with some supportive of the measures and others advocating for addressing root causes.
The Ministry of Social Development in Jordan has escalated efforts to combat begging during Ramadan, detaining 335 individuals since the holy month commenced. The ministry reported a total of 1,820 beggars apprehended since the start of 2025, following 1,150 inspection campaigns throughout the country.
The ministry’s teams are operating continuously, targeting commercial areas, traffic intersections, and public spaces in partnership with the Public Security Directorate and legal authorities. They emphasize the importance of donating through licensed charities, advising the public against giving directly to individuals soliciting for money.
In their statement, the ministry highlighted that responsible giving during Ramadan is essential to ensure assistance reaches those in genuine need. Charitable organizations supervised by the ministry have been directed to enhance public awareness regarding the legal ramifications associated with begging.
According to Article 389 of the Jordanian Penal Code, begging is categorized as a criminal offense. Citizens are encouraged to report suspected cases via the ministry’s hotline at 0793344330. The crackdown on begging has elicited mixed responses; some individuals support the initiative, believing it protects genuine recipients of charity, while others argue that addressing the underlying causes of begging is crucial.
Community reactions vary, with residents like Khaled Amjad expressing frustration with habitual beggars at intersections, while others, such as Rana Ali, advocate for a more comprehensive approach beyond mere enforcement.
Jordan’s Ministry of Social Development is intensifying its anti-begging measures during Ramadan, aiming to protect legitimate charity recipients and encourage responsible giving. Amidst mixed public reactions, officials are urging donations via licensed channels to ensure aid reaches those truly in need. The legal backdrop, highlighting the criminality of begging, aims to foster a more organized approach to charity while addressing public concerns about professional begging.
Original Source: jordantimes.com
