Hadeel Abdel Aziz (Arabic: هديل عبد العزيز) is a Jordanian legal expert and human rights activist. She is also a founding member and executive director of the Justice Center for Legal Aid (JCLA) based in Jordan. Her work focuses on advocating for judicial reform, court automation, and providing access to justice through a network of legal aid clinics.
Born in Jordan, Hadeel Abdel Aziz obtained a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Jordan. She went on to make history as the first Jordanian to be certified as a judicial administrator by Michigan State University. Her exceptional educational background laid the foundation for her future career in the field of law.
Before establishing the Justice Center for Legal Aid, Abdel Aziz worked as a Court Administration Unit manager for the Rule of Law Program of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) from 2004 to 2009. Her experience in court administration further honed her expertise and prepared her for the challenges she would face in the pursuit of justice.
Under the umbrella of the JCLA, Abdel Aziz has dedicated her professional life to providing legal services to underprivileged individuals and communities. She has been a strong advocate for state-funded legal aid, ensuring that even the most vulnerable members of society have access to justice. The core principle of her work is legal empowerment, empowering individuals by educating them about their fundamental rights and equipping communities with the necessary tools to address legal issues.
As a human rights activist, Abdel Aziz has been at the forefront of defending the rights of various marginalized groups, including juveniles, refugees, migrants, and survivors of sexual and gender-based violence. Her commitment to justice and equality has earned her recognition and accolades. In 2023, she was presented with the International Women of Courage Award, a prestigious honor that acknowledges her extraordinary contributions to promoting human rights and empowering others. Jill Biden and Anthony J. Blinken presented her with the award at the U.S. Department of State.
Abdel Aziz’s endeavors also extend to advocating for the abolishment of Jordan’s controversial rape law, Article 308. She has been instrumental in enforcing the persecution of criminals and ensuring justice for women, children, and victims of terrorism. Her efforts in this area have been recognized at the United Nations and World Bank-sponsored projects.
Furthermore, Abdel Aziz has been actively involved in addressing the challenges faced by migrant workers in Jordan. She has raised awareness about the abuses inflicted upon migrant workers, highlighting the gap in protection and emphasizing the importance of implementing laws and tools to safeguard their rights. Her dedication to migrant workers’ rights led to the repatriation of nine abused Filipinos who were domestic helpers.
Throughout her career, Hadeel Abdel Aziz has demonstrated a clear-sighted vision to strengthen the justice system in Jordan and advocate for the rights of the most marginalized. Her tireless efforts in defending human rights and promoting access to justice have made her a respected figure both nationally and internationally. She continues to inspire others with her commitment to equality, justice, and the empowerment of individuals through the law.
Awards:
– International Women of Courage Award (2023)
– Franco-German Prize for Human Rights and the Rule of Law (2023)