ABSTRACT
An Ombudsman, often in a position of confrontation with authorities, serves as an independent, non-partisan agent, spokesperson, arbitrator or referee, ensuring that government ministries and others fulfil legislative purpose by suggesting measures for improvement. An Ombudsman has the power to investigate, criticise and publicise, but not to reverse administrative action or revoke administrative decisions. The effectiveness of an Ombudsman, who has to be “a strong figure … able to secure the attention of the authorities by sheer force of personality” (Melton, 1993) may depend on the person having “sufficient charisma, skill, and political stature and independence to carry out the office’s mission” (ibid.). A public Ombudsman, especially one established by Parliament, has particular responsibility in relation to the Parliament, the ministries, and other levels of political and administrative authority, to suggest improvements and to pressure these authorities to fulfil their legislative purpose. Confrontations with public authorities may be necessary from time to time, but typically action takes place quietly, “behind the scenes”.
