Parliamentary Ombudsman participates in first day of IOI Board Meeting in Rabat, Morocco

Parliamentary Ombudsman participates in first day of IOI Board Meeting in Rabat, Morocco

Published May 13, 2025

The Parliamentary Ombudsman of Malta, Judge Joseph Zammit McKeon, in his capacity as an elected Director of the IOI World Board took part in the opening session of the IOI Board of Directors meeting, currently being held in Rabat, Morocco. The meeting is hosted by the Mediator of the Kingdom of Morocco and brings together elected representatives from around the world to discuss the strategic governance of the IOI.

Established in 1978, the IOI is the only global organisation for the cooperation of independent Ombudsman institutions, representing more than 200 members across over 100 countries. Organised into six regional chapters—Africa, Asia, Australasia & Pacific, Europe, the Caribbean & Latin America, and North America—the IOI supports its members through training, research, and regional project funding. It also actively promotes the establishment of Ombudsman institutions, the exchange of best practices, and engagement with international stakeholders.

Welcoming the Board to Rabat, Mr Hassan Tariq, Mediator of the Kingdom of Morocco, described it as an honour to host the meeting and highlighted the essential role of Ombudsman institutions as the voice of the vulnerable. IOI President Nashieli Ramírez Hernández echoed this sentiment, reaffirming the organisation’s shared goals in promoting human rights and good governance through its global network and collaborative efforts.

This meeting also marked the first official session for the new IOI Secretary General, Mr Bernhard Achitz, of the Ombudsman Board of Austria. In his introductory remarks, Mr Achitz expressed his commitment to supporting the IOI, its members, and the Board in strengthening the institution’s work worldwide.

The IOI Board of Directors is the principal governing body of the organisation, tasked with overseeing its operations between General Assemblies. Composed of elected representatives from each region, the Board is responsible for authorising expenditures, supervising regional and organisational activities, proposing amendments to the by-laws, and setting membership policies. It also shapes the IOI’s strategic direction and develops cooperation frameworks with international partners.

During the first day of proceedings, the Board discussed and approved the appointments of the IOI President and Secretary General, reviewed new membership applications, and considered updates on finances, regional initiatives, and subsidies.

The Parliamentary Ombudsman of Malta is accompanied by Mr Jurgen Cassar, Head of Communications and Research at the Office of the Ombudsman.