The Parliamentary Ombudsman participates in the 45th Anniversary of the Civic Defender of Lazio

The Parliamentary Ombudsman participates in the 45th Anniversary of the Civic Defender of Lazio

Published April 08, 2025

The Parliamentary Ombudsman of Malta, Judge Joseph Zammit McKeon, is currently participating in an official conference in Rome commemorating the 45th anniversary of the Civic Defender of the Lazio Region.

Organised by Dott. Marino Fardelli, Civic Defender of Lazio and National Coordinator of Civic Defenders in Italy, the event is being held at the Regional Council headquarters outside Rome. It brings together institutional representatives, academics, and civil society leaders to reflect on the evolution of the Ombudsman institution and its role in promoting good governance and citizens’ rights.

Judge Zammit McKeon was invited as a keynote speaker and delivered an address entitled “Ombudsman Today: Challenges and Opportunities for Citizens’ Rights.” In his speech, he explored how Ombudsman institutions must evolve to meet new societal and technological challenges while remaining firmly rooted in their mission to uphold transparency, accountability, and justice in public administration.

Judge Zammit McKeon is also attending in his role as a member of the European Regional Board of the International Ombudsman Institute (IOI), underlining the importance of international cooperation among Ombudsman institutions.

Dott. Marino Fardelli opened the event by emphasising the importance of the Civic Defender’s mission:
“Celebrating 45 years of Civic Defence means recognising the value of an institution that works daily to ensure administrative justice and fairness. The Ombudsman is a vital safeguard for transparency and the protection of rights. We must strengthen its role, expand its competences, and make it more accessible to the people.”

Antonello Aurigemma, President of the Lazio Regional Council, highlighted the institution’s democratic role:
“The Civic Defender is a cornerstone of our democracy and a crucial service for the citizens of Lazio. The Regional Council is committed to ensuring that this institution continues to grow stronger and more effective in meeting the needs of our communities.”

The event includes thematic sessions dedicated to the future of civic oversight, offering a platform for dialogue between experts, public officials, and the public. The conference affirms the vital role of the Ombudsman in defending citizens’ rights and promoting a more open, responsive, and transparent public administration.

Read the Ombudman's speech