Amman: Correctional and rehabilitation centers in Jordan are adopting cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) programs as part of efforts to enhance rehabilitation services, address the underlying causes of criminal behavior, and support inmates' successful reintegration into society.
According to Jordan News Agency, the initiative was launched on Tuesday by Public Security Director Maj. Gen. Obaidallah Maayta during a ceremony attended by Cyprus Ambassador to Jordan Sevag Avedissian, Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime in Jordan Amjad A'Darbeh, representatives of the Ministries of Health and Justice, the National Center for Human Rights, the International Committee of the Red Cross delegation in Jordan, senior Public Security Directorate officers, and representatives of local and international partner organizations.
Maayta said the project marks a significant step in the Public Security Directorate's efforts to further develop the correctional and rehabilitation system and strengthen restorative justice principles. He noted that modern security concepts extend beyond law enforcement to addressing the root causes of crime, rehabilitating offenders, and enabling their positive reintegration into society.
Maayta stated that the project seeks to improve the psychological and social services provided to inmates in line with international standards and best practices, noting that cognitive behavioral therapy programs are among the most effective methods for changing patterns of thinking and behavior associated with delinquency. He added that the initiative will also strengthen the capacities of personnel working in correctional and rehabilitation centers.
The Public Security Director commended the support provided by the Embassy of Cyprus, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, and national partners in advancing rehabilitation and reform programs. For his part, Avedissian said the project represents a model of international cooperation in support of rehabilitation and reform efforts. He praised the progress achieved by the Public Security Directorate in inmate care and rehabilitation programs and reaffirmed Cyprus' commitment to supporting initiatives that promote rehabilitation and social reintegration.
Meanwhile, A'Darbeh indicated the project aims to strengthen rehabilitation services and reduce drug-related recidivism through the establishment of cognitive behavioral therapy programs at the Muwaqqar and Juweideh correctional and rehabilitation centers. He added that the initiative will also enhance the capabilities of national personnel working in correctional and rehabilitation centers and the health sector.
The ceremony featured a presentation on the achievements of the first phase of support programs, as well as an overview of the new project's objectives, which focus on integrating cognitive behavioral therapy into a sustainable institutional rehabilitation framework.