Between 31 October and 1 November 2023, Human Rights Ombudsman Peter Svetina participated at an international conference about the importance of respecting the principle of good governance, which was organised by the Parliamentary Ombudsman of Malta in Valletta. Participants debated the role of the institute of the Ombudsman in protecting the rights of citizens, which in this complex world has developed far beyond its traditional borders. “Our duty exceeds the bare solving of questions posed by people who believe that their rights have been violated. We have to also deal with systemic injustices and wider social questions, the goal of which must be to protect the dignity of every person,” said Ombudsman Svetina.

He emphasised that every ombudsperson, in order to efficiently serve the people, must act according to the principles of transparency, fairness, objectivity, impartiality, and empathy. He stressed the importance of proactive communication, especially with vulnerable groups. “If we strengthen the voice of marginalised groups, it will be easier to jumpstart reforms and build a society that leaves nobody behind,” he explained, adding that proactivity must be a constant commitment and communication that works in both directions. “Regular consultations or a dialogue with organisations of civil society are extremely important, as is direct contact with people on the ground, which in this era of technological advancement and wider use of digital technologies is increasingly stepping into the background. In this light Svetina presented the so-called Ombudsman’s Corners in Slovenian municipalities. With their help, the institution of the Slovenian Ombudsman wishes to come closer to a wider circle of people in the environment in which they live, especially those who might not have access to online sources or have trouble with digital operations.

In his speech, Ombudsman Svetina touched upon how important it is that the authorities respect the decisions and recommendations of ombudspersons. As he said, he does not accept the excuse from politicians that certain rights are not realised simply because of high costs. As an example he mentioned the (in)accessibility of buildings and services for people with disabilities and added that the law stipulates that all buildings in public use should be adapted for people with disabilities by 2025, yet Slovenia is still facing many challenges in this field. “Bearers of authority have a duty to consistently monitor the realisation of set goals and respect all deadlines from the valid legislation. This does not only reflect their attitude towards one of the most vulnerable groups but also towards the rule of law,” stated Peter Svetina, adding that the Human Rights Ombudsman of the Republic of Slovenia actively monitors this area. They find that the situation is far from ideal, in places it is even critical, which is in the opinion of the Slovenian Ombudsman unacceptable for any developed country.

The Ombudsman also discussed other challenges – from artificial intelligence to climate crisis and called upon his fellow ombudspersons to join him in actively dealing with and promoting changes for the better in their own respective fields. “This is the only way to shape a future in which the rights of every person are respected and protected; where no voice goes unheard, and in which justice is not a privilege but a right guaranteed at birth.” He added that only our joint efforts can create a society which is fair, just, and inclusive. Svetina believes that care for our fellow humans with compassion and attention creates the conditions for a high quality of life of the entire community.

Participants of the conference were also adressed by the President of the Maltese Government, Robert Abela, and the Parliament, Angelo Frrugia. Slovenian Ombudsman Peter Svetina also participated at an official reception under the auspices of the President of the Republic of Malta, Dr George Vella and held some bilateral talks, including with the host of the conference, Maltese Ombudsman Joseph Zammit McKeon.