Ombudsman delivers a lecture at the University of Malta

Ombudsman delivers a lecture at the University of Malta

Published January 10, 2025

The Parliamentary Ombudsman, Judge Emeritus Joseph Zammit McKeon, recently delivered a lecture to two groups of students at the University of Malta’s Department of Policy, Politics, and Governance within the Faculty of Economics, Management, and Accountancy. The first group, led by Dr Marguerite Camilleri, comprised first-year undergraduates taking the Politics and Governance BA (Hons) course, while the second group, lectured by Dr George Vital Zammit, included graduate students following the study-unit Good Governance and Leadership.

During his lecture, the Ombudsman explained the constitutional status and functions of his office, focusing on its autonomy, independence, and the powers granted under the Ombudsman Act. He underscored the importance of the Ombudsman’s relationship with Parliament—given that the Ombudsman is an Officer of Parliament—and discussed the dynamics of working with the public administration. He emphasised that he prefers a “bridge-building” approach designed to give a voice to the voiceless and improve public services.

Students and their lecturers actively participated, posing questions and engaging in discussions about the Ombudsman’s work. The Ombudsman highlighted that these lectures are part of the Office’s ongoing outreach initiatives, which have already produced encouraging results: last year, the Office recorded a 137% increase in assistance provided to the public, alongside a 6% rise in complaints. This reflects both the growing visibility of the institution and its effectiveness in addressing issues of maladministration.