Amman: The Ministry of Political and Parliamentary Affairs on Tuesday launched the "Digital Safety for Political Parties" project in cooperation with the Information and Research Center - King Hussein Foundation. The project, implemented in cooperation with SecDev, aims to strengthen political parties' readiness to confront digital challenges, protect their data and information, and improve the efficiency of their staff in managing their digital presence safely and effectively.
According to Jordan News Agency, during the ceremony, Secretary-General of the ministry Ali Khawaldeh emphasized that political modernization extends beyond legislation and laws, requiring a culture of institutional teamwork grounded in principles, values, and best practices, including effective communication. The project is part of the national vision for political modernization, considering strong and effective political parties as fundamental to modern democratic life.
Khawaldeh highlighted the importance of building party capacity to operate securely in the digital environment, enabling them to engage with young people using contemporary tools. He noted that digital platforms and modern technologies are essential for political work, particularly in engaging youth, promoting participation, and enabling informed electoral choices based on programs.
Director of the Information and Research Center Ayman Halaseh described the project as a step toward enhancing parties' ability to manage their digital presence responsibly and safely. This initiative supports public trust, organized political participation, and the protection of the digital political space from risks affecting party work.
Halaseh emphasized the project's relevance as political parties expand their role in public life following political modernization outcomes, which have increased political participation opportunities, especially for youth and women. The cooperation between national and international institutions aims to support political modernization and enhance the capacity of political actors in the digital era.
Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa at the International Development Research Center, Wessam El Beih, underlined the importance of studies and research in sustaining party work. She highlighted data protection and institutional structures as crucial for developing effective political work.
Lina Momani, regional partnerships lead at SecDev Foundation, noted that digital harm affects public and political participation, making digital safety an integral aspect of personal and political safety. She stressed the need for clear policies, reporting mechanisms, and institutional support alongside technical protection.
Sawsan Zaydeh, head of the Information and Research Center's research department, outlined the project's objectives, focusing on enhancing parties' digital security and readiness to address cyber risks. The project aims to equip party leaders and staff with skills to protect digital accounts, use social media safely, and counter cyber threats.