The Bedul’s way of life, recognized by UNESCO as part of Petra’s living heritage, is at risk.

Human Rights Watch urges Jordan to halt the evictions, restore basic services, and work with the Bedul to ensure their rights and cultural identity are protected.

Preserving Petra’s future must include the people who have long called it home.

The Jordanian government is forcibly evicting the Bedul, a Bedouin community indigenous to the Petra region, through coercive measures that undermine their rights and cultural heritage, Human Rights Watch said in a new report. Authorities have cut off water, suspended salaries, and detained residents without charge to pressure them into abandoning their ancestral homes in the Stooh al-Nabi Harun area.

Officials claim the evictions are needed to protect Petra’s archaeological site and tourist infrastructure.

But for the Bedul—who have lived in caves and tents around Petra for generations—the forced relocations sever ties to land, livelihood, and culture.

Relocated families report experiencing isolation, food insecurity, and a loss of access to traditional occupations, such as herding and farming.

Despite international obligations, Jordan has failed to conduct meaningful consultations with the community or secure their free, prior, and informed consent.

Source: HRW