BackCONCEPT OF THE OMBUDSMAN
AORC facilitated discussion via Zoom
Tuesday, 30 March 2021 / 10.00 a.m. (SA, GMT+2)
The word ‘Ombudsman’ derives from the Swedish word ‘umbudsmann’, meaning representative. The modern concept dates back to 1809 when the Swedish Parliamentary Ombudsman was established to protect the rights of citizens through setting up a supervisory agency, independent of the Executive branch of government.
Over time, many countries have created Ombudsman offices, which are known by a number of different names. Francophone countries tend to use the term Mediator rather than Ombudsman. In South Africa, the Ombudsman is called the Public Protector, while in Nigeria, the institution is known as the Public Complaints Commission.
This facilitated discussion is an excellent opportunity to discuss the concept of the Ombudsman and how the institution can be used as a tool to strengthen government institutions to be an efficient service provider that is responsible and responsive to the needs of the citizens.
Speakers at this Zoom event include Ms Victoria Pearman, Ombudsman for Bermuda; Mr Paul Dubé, Ombudsman of Ontario (Canada) and Professor Ibrahim Agboola Gambari from the African Peer Review Mechanisms (APRM). The discussion will be facilitated by the Hon. Florence Kajuju, Ombudsman of Kenya and General Secretary of the African Ombudsman and Mediator Association (AOMA).
Simultaneous interpretation will be available in English, French, Arabic and Portuguese. The Registration is no open; CLICK HERE to secure your place in advance:
Source: African Ombudsman Research Centre (AORC)
