Ombudsman under threat

Threats to Ombudsman institutions come in a variety of forms but have a common denominator: they come as a direct response to the complaint handling work of Ombudsmen and their efforts to protect human rights and fight corruption.

The IOI acknowledges the general need to support member institutions under threat as one of its core tasks, especially when democracy is weakened, undermined or comes under threat. The IOI sees the need to support democratic oversight bodies such as the Ombudsman in order to protect the citizens concerned.

The IOI therefore developed a set of guidelines to establish principles and courses of action to coordinate IOI support for Ombudsmen coming under threat, facing reprisals or operating under difficult circumstances.

When supporting a member in need, the IOI will respect its values and principles and apply a “do-no-harm” principle. Coordination and communication of any actions and at all stages of the process is of utmost importance; especially with the Ombudsman institution in question.

The guidelines provide an overview of the options for support available and clarify the procedures to be followed should such case present itself.