The accession of Hungaryto the North-Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) in 1999 meant and continues to mean new obligations as well as new challenges and opportunities for the Armed Forces. In a recently published article the Hungarian Ombudsman illustrates his investigations within the national Armed Forces and outlines his work relating to penitentiary institutions.

It is with great regret that the I.O.I. has learned about the passing of the former parliamentary commissioner for administration and health service commissioner for England, Wales and Scotland Sir Cecil Clothier.

The International Ombudsman Institute, on behalf of all of its members, would like to express its deepest sympathy on the tragic death of the Human Rights Defender of the Republic of Poland, Dr Janusz Kochanowski.

During the 3rd General Assembly of the AOMA held in Angola, Namibia Ombudsman Mr. John Walters has been elected new Regional Vice-President to the African chapter of the I.O.I.

It is with great regret that the I.O.I. has learned about the passing of former Portuguese Ombudsman, Mr. Henrique Nascimento Rodrigues on 11 April 2010 at the age of 69.

Kyrgyz Ombudsman, Mr. Tursunbek Akun had been attacked and seriously injured during the unrest in the Kyrgyz capital Bishkek.

The Citizen’s Commissioner of the State of Rhineland-Palatinate and President of the European Ombudsman Institute (EOI) Mr. Ullrich Galle, resigned from office on 31 March 2010.

Dott. Raffaello Sampaolesi was appointed new Regional Ombudsman of the autonomous province of the Tretino and will replace the previous ombudswoman, Prof. Donata Borgonovo.