Parliamentary Ombudsman delivers keynote address at World Services Group European meeting in Malta

Parliamentary Ombudsman delivers keynote address at World Services Group European meeting in Malta

Published November 28, 2025

The Parliamentary Ombudsman, Judge Joseph Zammit McKeon, was invited to deliver a keynote speech during a European meeting of the World Services Group, organised by MAMO TCV. The meeting formed part of a closed professional forum bringing together senior legal practitioners to discuss current legal, regulatory and governance developments affecting Europe.

The theme of the Ombudsman’s keynote address was “The Ombudsman. Another access to justice.” In his address, Judge Zammit McKeon underlined that the Constitution remains the primary democratic benchmark safeguarding the rule of law and fundamental rights. He stressed that access to justice must be as broad as possible and that meaningful justice is a core component of good governance.

He explained that access to justice should not be understood solely as recourse to courts or tribunals. Drawing on his experience as a former judge of the Superior Courts and as a litigation lawyer, he emphasised that alternative avenues exist, particularly where grievances arise from acts or omissions of the public administration.

The Ombudsman highlighted the role of the Ombudsman Act 1995, which establishes an investigative mechanism that can prevent disputes from escalating into litigation. He described the Office as providing free and accessible redress, offering individuals the opportunity to hold public authorities to account without the cost and delay of court proceedings.

Judge Zammit McKeon underlined that the Ombudsman does not compete with the courts. The distinction lies in the nature of the Ombudsman’s powers, which are rooted in the ability to assess not only legality but also fairness, reasonableness and justice. He referred to the wide margin of appreciation conferred by the law, allowing the Ombudsman to address decisions that, while lawful, may still be wrong or unjust.

He explained that the Ombudsman issues recommendations with strong moral authority rather than executive orders. This enables the Office to identify structural weaknesses in public services and promote improvements in the public interest. The Ombudsman also plays an explanatory role by clarifying to complainants how public bodies have justified their actions, contributing to transparency and understanding.

The address concluded by highlighting the Ombudsman’s role in defending individuals where complaints are upheld and, where necessary, drawing the attention of the Prime Minister and Parliament to persistent failures by public authorities. The Ombudsman also noted the relevance of EU law, explaining that serious breaches may be brought to the attention of the European Commission, reinforcing accountability at both national and European levels.

The event was held at the offices of MAMO TCV in Valletta, a member of the World Services Group’s European circle of firms that meet twice yearly to exchange views and strengthen professional networks. The Malta meeting was hosted as part of this ongoing cycle of European engagements.

World Services Group is a prominent global network of independent professional service firms. Founded in 2002, it connects more than 120 firms across over 150 jurisdictions, bringing together over 23,000 legal professionals and a small number of selected investment banking and accounting firms. The network facilitates cross-border cooperation, knowledge sharing and collaboration on complex international matters.