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The publication “The Ombudsman in the Age of Artificial Intelligence. Rights and emerging technologies: a strategic, predictive and transformative approach to rights protection” is now available online.
The publication “The Ombudsman in the Age of Artificial Intelligence. Rights and emerging technologies: a strategic, predictive and transformative approach to rights protection” is now available online. The work explores the impact of emerging technologies on citizens’ rights protection systems and on the role of oversight institutions.
In a context where artificial intelligence is profoundly reshaping the relationship between citizens, public administrations and public services, the ombudsman institution is also called to rethink its tools, methods and approaches in order to ensure more effective, accessible and timely rights protection.
The volume is the result of a collaboration between Marino Fardelli (Ombudsman of the Lazio Region and President of Italian Ombudsmen), Guido Giusti (Ombudsman of the Emilia-Romagna Region and Vice President of Italian Ombudsmen) and Ignacio Domínguez (lecturer and AI expert). It aims to provide a structured reflection on the role of oversight institutions in the era of digital transformation, analysing opportunities, risks and prospects related to the use of artificial intelligence in public administration.
The publication was presented in Rome during the International Conference of Ombudsmen held on 28–29 May 2026, and proposes an innovative approach to rights protection, focused on prevention, predictive analysis and the improvement of public service quality.
Special thanks are extended to the Regional Council of Lazio, which supported the production and dissemination of the volume, confirming its commitment to innovation, democratic participation and the centrality of citizens’ rights.
The publication (currently in Italian and Spanish) is available for free download on the official website of the Lazio Ombudsman.
General framework
The introduction of artificial intelligence into public processes requires deep reflection on rights guarantees. In this scenario, the Ombudsman plays an even more strategic role in ensuring balance between technological innovation and the protection of individuals.
Institutional perspective
Oversight institutions must evolve towards more predictive and proactive models, capable of identifying critical issues and preventing administrative dysfunctions, while maintaining their core function of proximity and citizen engagement.
Ethical and digital dimension
The use of artificial intelligence in public administration requires transparency, accountability and human oversight. The challenge is not only technological, but profoundly democratic and cultural.
“The volume – state Fardelli, Giusti and Domínguez – contributes to the debate on the future of oversight institutions in the digital era, promoting a vision in which technological innovation always serves the individual, good governance and the principles of the rule of law.”
Source: Office of the Lazio Ombudsman, Italy
