Back-
The III Italian Edition of the International Ombudsman Conference will be held in Rome on 28 and 29 May 2026, at the Italian Parliament
The III Italian Edition of the International Ombudsman Conference will be held in Rome on 28 and 29 May 2026, at the Italian Parliament.
The event is organized by Marino Fardelli, Ombudsman of the Lazio Region, President of the National Coordination of Italian Ombudsmen, and member of the IOI Europe Board.
This Conference represents an event of outstanding international significance, bringing together Ombudsmen, Mediators, experts, academics, and institutional representatives from numerous countries and continents, reaffirming the central role of oversight institutions in protecting fundamental rights and strengthening democratic systems.
A significant number of speakers and participants have already registered, demonstrating the strong international interest in the initiative.
The choice of the Italian Parliament as the venue underscores the institutional importance of the Conference and highlights the strategic value of dialogue between oversight bodies, public administrations, and citizens in a global context marked by profound social, technological, and institutional transformations.
Conference Objectives
The Conference will provide an important forum for discussion on:
- institutional mediation as an effective tool for protecting citizens’ rights;
- the role of Ombudsmen and oversight institutions within democratic systems;
- the exchange of experiences, best practices, and innovative models;
- strengthening international cooperation among Ombudsmen and related bodies.
Thematic Panels
The programme will be structured around five high-level panels:
- Panel I – New Global Challenges: Complex Administrations, Digitalization, and Citizens’ Rights
- Panel II – Building an International Network for Protection: Cooperation and Exchange of Best Practices
- Panel III – Institutional Communication and Transparency: Bringing Citizens Closer to the Ombudsman
- Panel IV – The Future of Institutional Mediation Worldwide
- Panel V – Engaging Young People in the Protection of Rights
General Audience with His Holiness Pope Leo
As part of the institutional events linked to the Conference, on 27 May 2026 at 10:00 a.m., participating delegations and Ombudsmen will be received in General Audience by His Holiness Pope Leo, in St Peter’s Square.
During the meeting, a symbolic gift will be presented to the Holy Father as a sign of shared commitment to the promotion of human dignity, fundamental rights, and social justice.
Registration and Information
Participants may register by completing the online registration form.
For further information, please contact: mfardelli@regione.lazio.it.
Source: The Office of the Ombudsman of the Lazio Region, Italy
