The Ombudsman meets with Ambassador of Belgium to Malta

The Ombudsman meets with Ambassador of Belgium to Malta

Published January 16, 2025

The Parliamentary Ombudsman, Judge Emeritus Joseph Zammit McKeon, welcomed at the Office of the Ombudsman the Ambassador of Belgium to Italy, Malta and San Marino, H.E. Mr Pierre-Emmanuel de Bauw.

During the discussion, the Ombudsman explained that the Office is committed to assisting not only Maltese nationals but also foreign nationals including visitors who experience maladministration by Maltese public authorities. He highlighted the importance of ensuring fairness and justice for everyone, regardless of nationality.

The Ambassador reiterated the significance of the Ombudsman institution, noting that it provides an accessible means of redress for all persons in Malta who may need its intervention.

Elaborating on the Office’s work, the Ombudsman described its moral authority, derived from meticulous and impartial investigations that often resolve grievances before any formal recommendations are even issued. He underlined his role as a “bridge-builder” between the complainant and the public administration. However, he also emphasised that when firm action is required in the interest of good administration, his Office does not hesitate to present reports to Parliament if recommendations are not upheld. In most cases, the public administration responds positively, with 78% of the Ombudsman’s recommendations being implemented.

The Ombudsman also discussed the importance of connecting with the public, including vulnerable groups. As an example, he mentioned regular visits to correctional facilities, which enable inmates to bring forward their concerns. This active outreach has contributed to a 137% increase in the Office’s assistance to the public and a 6% rise in formal complaints, compared with 2023 figures.

Furthermore, the Ombudsman provided updates on upcoming initiatives marking the 30th anniversary of the Office’s establishment. He highlighted the recently approved M.A. course in Ombudsman Law and Governance, launched in collaboration with the University of Malta, which reflects the institution’s ongoing commitment to academic development in this field.

The Ombudsman also updated the Ambassador on the institution’s efforts to broaden its remit to include the promotion and protection of human rights. The Office of the Parliamentary Ombudsman of Malta has all the credentials to become Malta’s National Human Rights Institution (NHRI), provided the Ombudsman Act of 1995 is amended to include a human rights mandate. The present legal and operational structure of the Office is already robust enough to meet this challenge and can be further strengthened in the future.

Concluding the meeting, Ambassador de Bauw expressed appreciation for the insights shared regarding the Ombudsman’s role and functions. He underscored the value of such discussions, especially in fostering a deeper understanding of the institution’s pivotal contribution to good governance in Malta.