Parliamentary Ombudsman presents the publication of the International Ombudsman Conference proceedings to the Speaker of the House

Parliamentary Ombudsman presents the publication of the International Ombudsman Conference proceedings to the Speaker of the House

Published February 05, 2026

The Parliamentary Ombudsman, Judge Joseph Zammit McKeon, presented the publication Upholding Good Governance in Challenging Times, the Role of the Ombudsman to the Speaker of the House of Representatives.

The book brings together the proceedings of the International Ombudsman Conference held in Malta on 15 and 16 October 2025 under the same theme. The conference gathered ombudsman and human rights institutions, public service leaders, and academics to reflect on the evolving role of oversight institutions in a rapidly changing environment. It was considered important that the substance of these contributions be preserved beyond the event itself. For this reason, the papers, reflections and discussions were compiled into this publication as a reference for future use.

The Ombudsman noted that the publication captures the expertise and perspectives shared during the conference and stands as a testimony to the value of international exchange and cooperation between institutions committed to good governance and the protection of rights. He expressed the hope that the book will serve as a useful resource for ombudsman and human rights institutions, public service leaders, academics and all those interested in the promotion of good governance.

The Speaker thanked Judge Joseph Zammit McKeon for the initiative behind both the conference and the publication. He described the book as a meaningful contribution to institutional memory and public understanding, preserving principles and reflections that should continue to guide democratic governance beyond the anniversary year.

Recalling his address at the 30th Anniversary Conference, the Speaker reiterated that the Office of the Ombudsman is more than a mechanism for receiving complaints. He described it as an institutional conscience whose loyalty must always remain with the people and with the truth. He underlined that, particularly in challenging times, the Ombudsman plays a vital role in safeguarding democracy and upholding accountability.

The Speaker concluded by reaffirming that good governance cannot endure without honesty and courage, and that truth must remain paramount beyond institutions, narratives or political preference.