In Jordan, numerous employees of government-run orphanages have been accused by orphans of committing physical, psychological and sexual abuse.

The National Centre for Human Rights says it has received 16 complaints of alleged abuse with a total of 25 children involved. But only four of the complaints have been passed on to courts because of a lack of evidence.

For its part, the social development ministry assures that every confirmed case will be taken to court.

Al Jazeera's Nisreen El Shamayleh reports from the town of Madaba on the disturbing incidence of abuse in orphanages.