For the World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on 15 June, the National Council for Family Affairs (NCFA) in Jordan, in collaboration with ESCWA, launched a study titled "Elder Abuse in Jordan: From the Shadows to Protection" during a meeting of the National Committee for Older Persons convened by the Council.
The study revealed multiple barriers to reporting cases of abuse and violence against older persons, namely the fear of social stigma, economic or emotional dependence on family members, and limited awareness of available protection mechanisms and support services, all of which discouraged victims from seeking help.
Drawing on field data collected from older persons and caregivers, the study sheds light on the most prevalent forms of abuse, identifies gaps in existing institutional and policy frameworks, and offers practical recommendations to strengthen the legal and social protection of older persons through a more comprehensive and effective national response.