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The newly elected 1st Vice President, Ms Nadine Mailloux
“Who speaks for fairness when trust in institutions is fragile?”
For more than 25 years, this question has guided my work as an Ombudsman. From the very beginning, I understood that this role is not just a function—it is a profound responsibility. Every day, we are entrusted with something precious: the trust of individuals who believe that fairness, transparency, and accountability still matter. That trust has shaped my entire career.
A Mission Rooted in Integrity
Today, I have the privilege of leading the Ombudsman Office of Montréal, a team dedicated to ensuring that every citizen’s voice is heard and that public administration acts with integrity. Our mandate is clear: to promote procedural fairness, resolve conflicts impartially, and strengthen confidence in democratic institutions.
Over the years, I have also had the honor of serving on the Board of the Forum of Canadian Ombudsman, including four years as its President, where we worked to reinforce the role of ombudsmanship across Canada. My involvement with the Association des Ombudsmans et Médiateurs de la Francophonie and my commitment to essential and advanced training programs at Université de Sherbrooke and Osgoode Hall Law School reflect a conviction that education and collaboration are key to our legitimacy and impact.
“I believe the Ombudsman’s greatest strength lies in independence, credibility, and the courage to speak truth to power—always with fairness and humanity.”
The IOI: A Guardian of Global Standards
This conviction drives my engagement with the International Ombudsman Institute (IOI). More than a network, the IOI acts as a global guardian of integrity and independence, helping Ombudsman institutions align with the Venice Principles—the cornerstone of our legitimacy. These principles are not abstract ideals; they are practical safeguards that protect independence, strengthen credibility, and ensure that Ombudsman offices can fulfill their democratic mission.
Looking ahead, I believe the IOI can go even further by developing a voluntary accreditation mechanism based on these principles. Such a tool would not only help members assert their independence and enhance public trust, but also position the IOI as a recognized reference for international organizations and multilateral bodies committed to good governance and human rights. This evolution would make the IOI an even stronger partner in promoting global standards and protecting the integrity of Ombudsman institutions worldwide.
Looking Ahead
I envision an IOI that continues to lead with ethical authority, supports capacity-building for under-resourced offices, and fosters inclusive governance where every region feels represented. In a world where polarization and institutional fragility are growing, our collective voice matters more than ever.
A Heartfelt Thank You
Thank you for the trust you have placed in me. Your support is more than a vote—it is a shared commitment to the values that unite us. I see this role not as a destination, but as a journey we take together: to strengthen our institutions, to protect independence, and to ensure that the Ombudsman remains a voice for fairness in every corner of the world. I look forward to listening, learning, and working alongside you to make these ambitions a reality.
About the Author
Nadine Mailloux is the Ombudsman of Montréal, Canada. A lawyer by training, she has over 25 years of experience in ombudsmanship within large public institutions and complex urban environments. She served for 10 years on the Board of the Forum of Canadian Ombudsman, including four years as President, and is actively involved in international networks such as the AOMF. Passionate about education, she co-directs essential and advanced training programs for ombudsman at Université de Sherbrooke and Osgoode Hall Law School. Her work is driven by a deep commitment to fairness, transparency, and human dignity.
Source: Ombudsman of the City of Montréal, Canada
