Armenia’s Human Rights Defender Anahit Manasyan has moderated a session dedicated to enhancing the effectiveness and independence of Ombudsman institutions, the impact of their recommendations and public trust at the international conference entitled “The Ombudsman Institution in a Changing Democratic and Human Rights Landscape,” held in Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus.

The conference marked the 35th anniversary of the establishment of the Ombudsman institution of the Republic of Cyprus.

“In my opening remarks, I emphasized that the very existence of an Ombudsman institution is of significant importance in a democratic state governed by the rule of law. At the same time, its tangible impact on society depends primarily on its independence and effectiveness. I noted that ensuring independence requires both the institution’s ability to operate autonomously and withstand potential interference, and State guarantees of its independence in law and in practice. Addressing effectiveness, I highlighted the importance of public authorities implementing Ombudsman recommendations and achieving systemic change through them. In this context, I underscored the crucial role of Ombudsman institutions in identifying and addressing systemic problems alongside examining individual complaints. Turning to public trust, I addressed the spread of disinformation and attempts to politicize the work of Ombudsman institutions in polarized and politicized environments. Such challenges call for effective response strategies,” Manasyan said on Facebook.

The panel brought together Armen Avetisyan, Human Rights Officer with the United Nations Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture (SPT); Claudine Konsbruck, Ombudsman of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg; and Tamar Gvaramadze, First Deputy Public Defender of Georgia.