An investigation published by Amman Net reveals that female workers in three garment factories in Jordan have been exposed to serious labour abuses. The investigation, which was carried out by local reporters and based on interviews with 17 female workers, alleges that female workers in Classic Fashion Apparel industry, Hi Tech Textile and Almafhoum factories have been exposed to poor and dangerous work conditions. The investigation also claims that female workers in the said factories have been denied the right to sick and annual leave, and were forced to work overtime without due pay, causing them serious health issues.

According to the investigation, the factories were established with the support of the Jordanian government in the amount of USD 100 million in construction costs and tax exemptions. The factories were established in areas with high unemployment and poverty rates in order to provide decent work for unemployed women in these areas. The Jordan’s labour Ministry spokesman told Arab news that the ministry has not received any complaints regarding these factories.

Ahmad Awad, director of the Phenix Center for Economic and Informatics Studies, said:

“These factories depend on low-paid jobs. Workers come from poor communities and are forced to work in unacceptable conditions in order to earn a meagre living.”

Linda Al-Kalash, director of the Tamkeen Center for Legal Aid and Human Rights, said

“lack of supervision is a major problem”. “These factories have poor occupational health and safety conditions and suffer from the low minimum wage these workers get,”

The business and Human Rights Resource Centre contacted Hi-Tech and Classic Fashion. Hi-Tech has provided the following response regarding the raised allegations. Classic Fashion did not respond. We were unable to reach Almafhoum company.