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A few days after the publication of ARIJ’s investigation “Freedom Denied.. Pychiatric patients trapped inside the forensic ward of “Al-Fuheis” Hospital in Jordan”, Jordanian Minister of Health Dr. Ibrahim Al-Bdour paid an unannounced visit to the National Center for Mental Health.
He toured various departments of the center and closely inspected the level of services provided in the diagnostic and psychiatric treatment clinics, as well as inspecting the forensic (judicial) section designated for patients referred by judicial authorities.
During the visit, the minister met with patients and listened to their feedback, and also heard from the medical and administrative staff about their observations and the key challenges they face in the field of mental health.
Al-Bdour stressed the importance of strengthening the infrastructure of the forensic section to ensure a safe, dignified, and specialized environment for patients, in addition to improving coordination mechanisms with judicial bodies to facilitate referral and follow-up procedures.
He affirmed that a “comprehensive review” of psychiatric and mental health care will be conducted to enhance technical and medical capacities, as part of an integrated strategy that takes into account the therapeutic, legal, and human rights dimensions of patient care.
The investigation by journalist Ola Al-Amleh, draws on testimonies from former residents and two former staff members of the forensic ward, as well as insights from legal and mental health experts. The accounts reveal harsh detention conditions endured by inmates, in blatant violation of United Nations guidelines on mental health and the rights of persons with disabilities. Official documents obtained by our team also show that some residents remain confined even after achieving social recovery—either because they lack a guarantor or are awaiting reconciliation procedures.
