Jordan leaps from 71st to 27th in global cybersecurity ranking

Jordan has made significant strides in cybersecurity, rising from 71st to 27th place in the latest Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI). 

Bassam Maharmeh, head of Jordan's National Cyber Security Center (NCSCJO), highlighted the importance of this progress during a session at the Jordan Economic Forum (JEF).

He emphasized that cybersecurity is increasingly critical due to the rapid digital transformation across various sectors. As the reliance on technology grows, protecting data, ensuring business continuity, and fostering trust between businesses and customers have become central concerns, with the private sector urged to prioritize cybersecurity.

During the forum, a factsheet on the 2024 GCI was unveiled, revealing that Jordan scored an impressive 98.6 percent, a sharp increase from 71 percent in 2020.

Key to Jordan’s progress was the passing of the Cybersecurity Law (No. 16) in 2019, which laid the foundation for the establishment of the NCSCJO. These efforts have significantly improved the focus on protecting cyberspace in Jordan and have contributed to the country’s improved standing. The forum also called for the rapid development of a comprehensive national cybersecurity strategy aligned with international standards to further elevate Jordan’s position.

Maharmeh also outlined the vital role played by the NCSCJO in strengthening the country's digital defenses. The center is responsible for regulating cybersecurity policies and overseeing the sector, with the authority to inspect institutions and issue licenses for cybersecurity companies. This regulatory framework has played a key role in making Jordan’s cybersecurity landscape more robust and competitive.

Jordan’s efforts extend beyond national borders as well. Maharmeh emphasized the importance of regional and international cooperation in tackling cyber threats. The center has been actively engaged in partnerships with global cybersecurity organizations to share knowledge and enhance capabilities. Additionally, the center organizes training camps and competitions for Jordanian youth to build a cybersecurity-aware generation equipped to handle future challenges.

In its ongoing commitment to safeguarding society, the center is also working on educational programs aimed at families and children. These initiatives are designed to raise awareness of online threats and offer support to combat cybercrimes, further strengthening cybersecurity awareness across the population.

Maharmeh concluded by stressing that Jordan’s remarkable progress is a result of collaborative efforts from various sectors, including the Ministry of Education, universities, the Central Bank of Jordan (CBJ), and the Public Security Directorate (PSD), all of whom have worked together to enhance the country's cybersecurity capabilities.