Thematic Lecture: Full recording and audiovisual resources

Thematic Lecture: Full recording and audiovisual resources

Published June 14, 2025

On 12 June 2025, the Office of the Ombudsman hosted a special Thematic Lecture to mark the opening of the Ombudsman’s 30th Anniversary Commemorative Programme. This event brought together national authorities, civil servants, academics, foreign guests and civil society representatives to reflect on the evolving role of Ombudsman institutions in promoting good governance, protecting rights, and strengthening democratic institutions.

The Thematic Lecture focused on the theme:

“Transparency, Fairness and Accountability: Cornerstones of Good Administration – The Mandate of the Ombudsman.”

The session was addressed by the Speaker of the House, the Hon. Anglu Farrugia, the Parliamentary Ombudsman, Judge Joseph Zammit McKeon and the Public Protector of South Africa, Advocate Khaleka Gcoleka followed by an open Q&A with participants.

All audiovisual recordings and full texts of the speeches are available below.

Speech by the Speaker of the House of Represenatatives

The Speaker underlined the Ombudsman’s constitutional mandate as a sentinel of democracy, stressing that transparency, fairness and accountability are not mere ideals but enforceable obligations. He reflected on the importance of preserving the independence and impartiality of Ombudsman institutions as a safeguard for public trust. [Read the speech]

Speech by the Parliamentary Ombudsman of Malta, Judge Joseph Zammit McKeon

The Ombudsman, Judge Joseph Zammit McKeon emphasised the institution’s duty to act with care, particularly for individuals who may have no other recourse. He spoke of the Ombudsman’s role in holding public administration accountable through objective scrutiny while encouraging a culture of fairness and ethical governance. [Read the speech]

Lecture by the Public Protector of South Africa, Adv. Kholeka Gcaleka

Advocate Gcaleka provided an international perspective on the evolving challenges faced by Ombudsman institutions, including inequality, governance failures and digital transformation. She stressed the duty to safeguard the dignity of individuals and uphold accountability while adapting to modern realities. [Read the lecture]

Question and Answer session

Following the main addresses, participants — including Members of Parliament, civil servants and academics — engaged directly with the speakers in an interactive session exploring practical aspects of oversight, governance, and the shared challenges Ombudsman institutions face worldwide.

Photo Gallery

A full selection of photos from the Thematic Lecture is available for viewing and download here