Parliamentary Ombudsman engages in ENNHRI General Assembly to advance the protection of Human Rights

Parliamentary Ombudsman engages in ENNHRI General Assembly to advance the protection of Human Rights

Published October 28, 2024

The Parliamentary Ombudsman, Judge Emeritus Joseph Zammit McKeon, took part in the General Assembly of the European Network of National Human Rights Institutions (ENNHRI), held in Brussels on 28 and 29 October. The General Assembly is ENNHRI’s highest decision-making body, bringing together all member institutions to shape the network’s policies, strategic direction, and operational framework.

Meeting bi-annually, the General Assembly sets ENNHRI’s guiding principles, approves the annual budget, and adopts its strategic and operational plans. Decisions are made by consensus where possible, with voting by ‘A’-status NHRI members as needed. The Office of the Ombudsman in Malta became an Associate Member of the ENNHRI in February of this year.

At the opening of the first session, Louise Holck, Director of the Danish Institute for Human Rights and Chair of ENNHRI, emphasised ENNHRI’s commitment to upholding high standards across National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs). She outlined ENNHRI’s role in strengthening, supporting, and connecting NHRIs, especially those facing challenges or threats.

Following the Chair’s introduction, Debbie Kohner, Secretary General of ENNHRI, presented the network’s Strategic Plan and implementation timelines. The Strategic Plan’s core aim is to effectively promote and protect human rights and the rule of law through a robust and sustainable network of NHRIs. ENNHRI’s current strategy provides a framework to respond to shifting regional dynamics while reinforcing its commitment to strengthening, connecting, and supporting NHRIs.

ENNHRI also announced its intention to invest in a participatory strategic planning process for the future, allowing it to adapt to evolving human rights challenges in Europe. The upcoming planning cycle will ensure that ENNHRI’s priorities and actions align with these changes to enhance resilience and support NHRIs’ human rights work across Europe.

The General Assembly reviewed and approved ENNHRI’s Strategic Plan, operational plan, and the budget required to achieve the network’s objectives. This support underscores a collective commitment among member institutions to foster a collaborative, impactful network that strengthens human rights protections across Europe.

The Parliamentary Ombudsman’s participation underscores Malta’s commitment to advancing human rights standards and engaging in ENNHRI’s collaborative efforts. Through membership in ENNHRI, the Office of the Ombudsman strengthens its advocacy for establishing a National Human Rights Institution (NHRI) in Malta. This membership represents a crucial step in ensuring that the Ombudsman’s Office is fully prepared to undertake a broadened mandate, should its remit be expanded to encompass the promotion and protection of human rights in line with the Paris Principles.

The Parliamentary Ombudsman was accompanied by Mr Paul Borg, Director General and Mr Jurgen Cassar, Head of Communications and Research.