Wide and Varied Geographic Distribution of Family Crimes in Jordan in the First Half of 2025

Strengthening Awareness and Family Counseling Programs to Prevent Violence Through Religious Platforms and the Role of Educational and Media Institutions

Solidarity Is Global Institute-JO (SIGI) reports that the first half of 2025 witnessed a worrying escalation in family-related murders in Jordan compared to the same period in 2024 — both in the number of incidents and the number of victims. There was also a noted increase in the diversity of weapons used and the severity of methods employed.

20% Increase in Family Murders Committed in the First Half of 2025

SIGI notes that documented data from security and media statements indicate around 12 family-related murders were recorded between January and June 2025, resulting in about 15 victims, including children, women, and youth. This compares to 10 murders and 12 victims during the first half of 2024 — an increase of roughly 20% in the number of crimes and 25% in the number of victims.

The vast majority of these crimes were committed by immediate family members (first-degree relatives). Perpetrators included brothers (around 5 cases), fathers (2 cases), husbands (2 cases), and wives (1 case), indicating an expansion in the range of familial relationships involved.

Firearms and Sharp Objects Most Commonly Used

SIGI’s qualitative analysis shows that firearms were the most commonly used weapon in these crimes (4 cases), followed by stabbings with sharp objects (3 cases), strangulation, burning, and more shocking methods such as throwing children into waterways or causing fatal falls from great heights under severe family pressures. This variety in methods reflects high levels of targeted violence and criminal intent, reducing chances of survival. It signals the intensity and seriousness of family disputes, posing a threat not only to individual lives but to the broader social fabric.

Crimes Spread Across Multiple Governorates

These crimes were recorded in several governorates, most notably Zarqa (3 murders), Mafraq and Ma’an (2 each), and Amman (2), in addition to cases in Northern Jordan Valley, Balqa, and Aqaba. This confirms that the phenomenon is geographically widespread and not linked to a specific region or social setting. Many of these crimes were preceded by warning signs such as escalating family disputes, financial conflicts, and social pressures — situations where preventive intervention was possible but either absent or limited.

2025 Shows a Reverse Trend — More Crimes, More Brutality

In contrast to the first half of 2024, which saw a 25% drop in family murders compared to 2023, 2025 has shown the opposite trend: an increase in cases, greater brutality, and a broader pool of perpetrators, with more victims per incident. If this escalation continues, it will require a comprehensive approach, including strengthening social protection systems, activating early reporting mechanisms, promoting family mediation and intervention, tightening controls on firearm possession, and providing psychosocial support for families facing complex disputes.

SIGI stresses that family-related murders — regardless of the method or victim profile — not only take lives but also weaken the social fabric and deepen divisions within Jordanian society. Addressing the issue must be a shared responsibility between the state, civil society, and families themselves, especially under challenging socio-economic conditions and regional instability. It is worth noting that civil society organizations face major challenges due to limited and shrinking resources worldwide, which threatens the sustainability of their services.

Strengthening Awareness and Family Counseling as Prevention

SIGI believes community efforts can be significantly strengthened by focusing on awareness programs that promote a culture of dialogue within families, creating safe channels to express pressures and problems before they escalate. Investing in family counseling and supporting local community initiatives can help build stronger, safer family environments, reducing the likelihood of conflicts escalating into violent crimes.

Additionally, reinforcing the role of educational, religious, and media institutions in promoting values of tolerance and peaceful conflict resolution — grounded in respect for rights and protections — is key. Involving youth in positive community activities and providing safe spaces for constructive dialogue and interaction are essential steps toward reducing violence and enhancing long-term family stability.