BackThe 12th General Assembly of the Association of Mediterranean Ombudsman (AOM), which met in Kosovo, approved the Pristina Declaration. The declaration underscores the crucial role of Ombudsman institutions in upholding human rights and fundamental freedoms, urging State actors to adhere to international standards.
The Pristina Resolution advocates for a strong legal foundation for Ombudsman institutions and ensures they maintain independence in carrying out their mandates. It emphasises the need for sufficient resources and protection from actions that could undermine their integrity. Furthermore, it calls for objective, merit-based appointment processes free from political interference and promotes functional immunity for Ombudspersons and their staff.
Member countries are urged to refer to international human rights standards, such as the Paris and Venice Principles, in legislative reforms concerning Ombudsman Institutions. The AOM calls upon international and regional human rights organisations to advocate for strengthening Ombuds institutions in line with the Paris Principles.
The General Assembly also approved the proposal of the Secretary-General and Treasurer of the AOM, the Parliamentary Ombudsman Judge Emeritus Joseph Zammit McKeon, to host the next General Assembly in Malta in 2025, coinciding with the 30th anniversary of Malta’s Ombudsman institution.
Source: AOM
