In most countries around the world parliamentary control bodies are established, which monitor and implement the rule of law, the fight against corruption and good public administration. Although the specific role of the Ombudsman institution may vary, the holder of this office is legitimized by parliament – either through direct elections or through appointment by the head of state or government by or after consultation with parliament.

The role of Ombudsman institutions is to protect the people against violation of rights, abuse of powers, unfair decisions and maladministration. They play an increasingly important role in improving public administration while making the government's actions more open and its administration more accountable to the public.

The International Ombudsman Institute (IOI), established in 1978, is the only global organisation for the cooperation of more than 200 independent Ombudsman institutions from more than 100 countries worldwide. The IOI is organised in six regional chapters (Africa, Asia, Australasia & Pacific, Europe, the Caribbean & Latin America and North America). In its effort to focus on good governance and capacity building, the IOI supports its members in a threefold way: training, research and regional subsidies for projects.

The IOI is organized in six Regionas, namely Africa, Asia, Australasia & Pacific, Caribbean & Latin America, Europe, and North America. The property and business of the IOI shall be controlled on behalf of the membership by the IOI Board of Directors.

The IOI strives to increase its presence, to further develop its influence, to strengthen its authority and to be the authoritative body on Ombudsman matters worldwide. It endeavours to be recognized as the voice of Ombudsman institutions within the international community.

While the IOI’s mission and vision remain faithful to the its core values of independence, objectivity and fairness and can be seen as the fundamentals on which this strategic plan is based, the goals identified are to be considered the IOI’s most relevant priorities inbetween General Assemblies.

Pursuant to Article 14.4 of the IOI By-laws “A regular meeting of the Voting members (the General Assembly) shall be held in conjunction with each International Ombudsman Conference, at least every four years.”

Since 1976, these IOI conferences and General Assemblies have been held in:

• 2024 - 13^th IOI World Conference - The Hague / The Netherlands (Europe)
• 2021 - 12^th IOI World Conference - Dublin / Ireland (Europe)
• 2016 - 11^th IOI World Conference - Bangkok / Thailand (Asia)
• 2012 - 10^th IOI World Conference - Wellington / New Zealand (APOR)
• 2009 - 9^th IOI World Conference - Stockholm / Sweden (Europe)
• 2004 - 8^th IOI World Conference - Québec / Canada (North America)
• 2000 - 7^th IOI World Conference - Durban / South Africa (Africa)
• 1996 - 6^th IOI World Conference - Buenos Aires / Argentina (Latin America)
• 1992 - 5^th IOI World Conference - Vienna / Austria (Europe)
• 1988 - 4^th IOI World Conference - Canberra / Australia (APOR)
• 1984 - 3^rd IOI World Conference - Stockholm / Sweden (Europe)
• 1980 - 2^nd IOI World Conference - Jerusalem / Israel (Europe)
• 1976 - 1^st IOI World Conference - Alberta / Canada (North America)