ISLAMABAD, May 29 (Alliance News): Federal Ombudsman Ijaz Ahmed Qureshi has emphasized the pivotal role that Ombudsman institutions play in promoting the rule of law, resolving public grievances, and ensuring good governance.
He made these remarks while addressing a webinar on “Ombudsmanship and the Requirement of International Standards” held at the Federal Ombudsman Secretariat.
Qureshi, who also serves as President of the 47-member Asian Ombudsman Association (AOA), noted that ombudsman offices have evolved into credible and accessible platforms for the free and prompt redressal of public complaints.
He highlighted that Pakistan’s Federal Ombudsman office has successfully aligned its operations with internationally accepted norms and principles.
“These standards, reflected in key UN General Assembly resolutions such as the Paris Principles, Venice Principles, and the 2023 resolution, offer a detailed framework for the effective implementation of the ombudsman mandate,” he said. “Following these standards adds legitimacy and global credibility to our work.”
Addressing the webinar as keynote speaker, Justice (Retd) M. Nawaz Wahla, Principal and Dean of NUST Law School, underscored the legal and institutional significance of these international guidelines.
He stressed that the United Nations has consistently recognized the value of ombudsman and mediation institutions in upholding human rights, ensuring good governance, and promoting adherence to the rule of law.
Justice Wahla added that these principles not only offer strategic direction but also protect the independence and effectiveness of such institutions.
The event drew a wide range of participants including representatives from the Asian Ombudsman Association (AOA), Organisation of Islamic Cooperation Ombudsman Association (OICOA), Forum of Pakistan Ombudsman (FPO), as well as legal scholars, academics, and civil society members.
Participants lauded the initiative to align domestic ombudsman frameworks with international standards and stressed the need to further strengthen such institutions across the region.
The webinar concluded with a call for continuous capacity building, exchange of best practices, and fostering global cooperation to enhance the impact of ombudsman institutions in delivering justice and reinforcing democratic values.
