BackOn 24 June 2025, the Albanian Ombudsman marked a significant milestone: 25 years of its establishment.
The official anniversary ceremony gathered distinguished representatives from national and international ombudsman institutions, human rights organizations, and civil society, all united by a shared commitment to the protection and promotion of fundamental human rights and freedoms.
This occasion was not only a celebration of the institution’s journey over the past two and a half decades but also a moment of reflection on the collective responsibility to uphold human rights as the foundation of democratic society.
A highlight of the anniversary program was the High-Level Conference held on 25 June 2025, under the theme: “National and International Structures to Protect Human Rights: Good Practices and Lessons Learned.” It provided a valuable platform for the exchange of experiences, the identification of key challenges, and the protection and promotion of best practices in the field of human rights, fostering meaningful dialogue across borders.
The conference brought together national and international leading voices, who shared valuable experiences and perspectives. The event was further enriched by special video messages from Ms. Teresa Anjinho, European Ombudsman, and Mr. Reiner van Zutphen, European Regional President of the International Ombudsman Institute. Their contributions offered important reflections on current challenges and developments in the protection of human rights at both regional and global levels.
The event also acknowledged the contributions of former Ombudspersons who played a crucial role in shaping the institution’s development, from laying its foundational pillars to enhancing its public visibility and reinforcing its advocacy for marginalized communities. Their leadership and commitment have been instrumental in defining the institution’s identity and advancing its mission over the years.
The Albanian Ombudsman, Mrs. Erinda Ballanca expresses sincere gratitude to all those who participated in and contributed to this significant milestone. The 25th anniversary stands as a powerful reminder that the protection of human rights is not the responsibility of one institution alone, but a shared and ongoing commitment, one that must be upheld each day with integrity, professionalism, and a deep sense of human empathy.
Source: People's Advocate of the Republic of Albania
