Title: From paper to pixels: the legal status and challenges of electronic writing in administrative contracts. A comparative study of current legal systems

Authors: Sadam Mohammad Awaisheh

Addresses: Faculty of Law, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, P.O. Box 19328, Amman, Jordan

Abstract: This research critically examines the legal status and challenges of e-writing in administrative contracts within Jordan's legal framework. Employing a qualitative doctrinal research approach, the study delves into Jordan's Electronic Transactions Law No. 15 of 2015, which establishes the legal validity of e-contracts and signatures. Despite this foundation, the research identifies significant technological, legal, and security challenges impeding the adoption of e-writing in administrative contracts. Through an exploration of case law and legal doctrine, the study outlines the complexities and proposes practical and legal strategies to overcome these obstacles. The objectives are threefold: to provide a comprehensive analysis of the legal regime governing e-operations in administrative contracts, to identify practical and legal challenges, and to offer suggestions for enhancing e-writing's use in administrative contracts. The findings underscore the necessity for a multifaceted approach to encourage the adoption of e-writing in administrative contracts, suggesting targeted technical, legal, and policy interventions.

Keywords: e-writing; administrative contracts; Jordan's legal framework; electronic transactions law; e-contracts; electronic signatures; digital infrastructure; legal challenges; technological barriers; public administration.

DOI: 10.1504/EG.2025.144726

Electronic Government, an International Journal, 2025 Vol.21 No.2, pp.210 - 226

Received: 28 Feb 2023
Accepted: 11 Apr 2024
Published online: 28 Feb 2025 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article