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The meeting of the National Coordination of Italian Regional Ombudspersons
On the occasion of the meeting of the National Coordination of Italian Regional Ombudspersons, held in Alghero on 20–21 June 2025, two distinguished international guests took part in the proceedings: Xavier Cañada Bonaetxea, Raonador del Ciutadà of Andorra, and Javier Hernández Garcia, former Lugarteniente of the Justicia de Aragón.
Their active participation confirmed the growing centrality of the Italian Ombudsman system in the European context, particularly in matters relating to fundamental rights, access to public administration, institutional mediation, and the protection of vulnerable individuals.
After previously attending events promoted by the Coordination in Rome (September 2023) and Cassino (September 2024), their presence in Alghero marked a further step in an ongoing and constructive dialogue, aimed at the exchange of good practices and at strengthening Italy’s role in promoting a shared culture of rights.
The Coordination emphasized how consolidated models such as Andorra’s citizen-focused institutional framework, and Aragón’s centuries-old guarantee institution, serve today as inspiring examples for enhancing the role and impact of the Italian Ombudsman.
During the meeting, participants reaffirmed their commitment to continuing the internationalization of the Coordination, with an eye toward future European events — including the European Ombudsman Conference in Brussels (November 2025) — and a proposed international gathering in Italy in spring 2026, aimed at promoting the values of transparency, public accountability, and effective access to protections.
Guido Giusti, Vice President of the Coordination and Ombudsman of the Emilia-Romagna Region, stated:
International dialogue is not only an opportunity for exchange but a concrete way to improve the quality of our daily work. Welcoming respected figures such as the Raonador of Andorra and the representative of the Justicia de Aragón in Alghero strengthens the European identity of the Italian Ombudsman system and motivates us to build a future in which rights are increasingly accessible and guaranteed.
Marino Fardelli, President of the Coordination and Ombudsman of the Lazio Region, added:
The Italian Ombudsman institution is now recognized as a credible and authoritative actor on the international stage. Our relations with Andorra, Aragón, and other European partners are a source of pride, but also a powerful incentive to grow, innovate, and ensure a civic protection that is increasingly concrete, effective, and universal.
Source: Difensore Civico della Regione Lazio, Italy
