International Ombudsman Institute adopts Guide to the Ethical Principles of Ombudspersons

International Ombudsman Institute adopts Guide to the Ethical Principles of Ombudspersons

Published June 10, 2026

The International Ombudsman Institute (IOI) has approved its new Guide to the Ethical Principles of Ombudspersons and their Staff Members, providing a common ethical framework for Ombudsman institutions around the world. The guide was formally adopted by the IOI World Board during its recent meeting in Curaçao.

The new document sets out seven core ethical principles that underpin the work of Ombudsman institutions: independence, impartiality, integrity and dignity, neutrality, transparency and confidentiality, respect and understanding, and expertise and responsibility. These principles are intended to serve as a reference point for Ombudsman institutions while recognising the diversity of legal systems, mandates and institutional structures that exist internationally.

The guide emphasises that Ombudspersons and their staff must act independently, free from political, administrative or other external influence, and safeguard the autonomy of their institutions. It also highlights the importance of impartial investigations, fairness, and the avoidance of conflicts of interest in the exercise of their functions.

Particular importance is given to integrity, professionalism and public trust. The guide states that Ombudspersons and their staff should exercise their authority solely for the purposes for which it has been conferred, use public resources responsibly, and conduct themselves in a manner that preserves the credibility and dignity of the institution.

The document also recognises the importance of transparency while respecting confidentiality, privacy and data protection obligations. It encourages Ombudsman institutions to communicate proactively with the public in clear and accessible language, while ensuring that information obtained during investigations remains properly protected. The guide also addresses the increasing use of digital technologies and artificial intelligence, stressing that such tools must be used in a secure, transparent and accountable manner and should support, rather than replace, human judgement.

Another key principle focuses on respect, listening and understanding. Ombudspersons and their staff are encouraged to ensure that all persons are heard, treated with dignity, and provided with accessible services that respond to diverse needs, particularly those of vulnerable and underrepresented groups.

The guide further highlights the importance of expertise, continuous learning and professional development. Ombudsman institutions are encouraged to promote the exchange of knowledge and best practices and to remain informed about developments in administrative justice, human rights standards and public administration.

The Parliamentary Ombudsman of Malta, Judge Joseph Zammit McKeon, formed part of the IOI Working Group entrusted with the preparation of the guide and contributed to the discussions and drafting process. The final text was unanimously approved by the IOI World Board.

The adoption of these ethical principles represents an important milestone for the international Ombudsman community. By establishing a shared ethical framework, the IOI seeks to strengthen public confidence in Ombudsman institutions and support the highest standards of independence, integrity and professionalism in the service of good governance, human rights and the rule of law.