The Parliamentary Ombudsman meets the Chief Ombudsman of Türkiye

The Parliamentary Ombudsman meets the Chief Ombudsman of Türkiye

Published April 09, 2025

The Parliamentary Ombudsman of Malta, Judge Joseph Zammit McKeon, held a courteous and productive meeting with the newly appointed Chief Ombudsman of the Republic of Türkiye, Mr Mehmet Akarca.

Mr Akarca, a former President of the Court of Cassation of Türkiye, was elected Chief Ombudsman by the General Assembly of the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye (GNAT) in December 2024. This meeting marked the first official exchange between the two Ombudsmen.

Drawing from their common backgrounds in the judiciary, both Ombudsmen shared their reflections on the unique role of Ombudsman institutions in facilitating access to justice. They emphasised that, while Ombudsman institutions do not function as courts of justice, they play a critical complementary role in holding public administrations to account and safeguarding fairness in public service delivery.

The Parliamentary Ombudsman of Malta explained that, unlike the judiciary, the Ombudsman’s function is not limited to reviewing legality. It extends further—assessing whether administrative acts or omissions, even if lawful, may still be wrong, unjust, or contrary to principles of good administration.

The Chief Ombudsman of Türkiye affirmed that the Ombudsman is not only a defender of the people but also a proactive guardian of human rights. He noted the duty of the Ombudsman to advocate against any violation of fundamental rights, in all circumstances.

The discussion also turned to the regional challenges facing the Mediterranean, particularly in the context of migration, environmental pressures, and administrative cooperation. Judge Zammit McKeon, who also serves as Secretary General and Treasurer of the Association of Mediterranean Ombudsmen (AOM), outlined the importance of the AOM as a platform for sharing best practices and experiences among Ombudsman institutions in Mediterranean countries.

He highlighted the upcoming AOM General Assembly, to be held in Malta this October, as a significant event in light of the association’s upcoming elections and its future strategic direction. The Chief Ombudsman of Türkiye expressed his full support for the work of the AOM and committed to contributing actively to its mission.

In their concluding remarks, both Ombudsmen expressed their intention to strengthen institutional cooperation between their offices. Judge Zammit McKeon welcomed further exchanges and initiatives that deepen mutual understanding and collaboration.

Mr Akarca reaffirmed that while Ombudsman institutions hold no political roles, they are central in promoting transparency, upholding human rights, and fostering public trust in administration.

The Parliamentary Ombudsman of Malta was accompanied by Mr. Paul Borg, Director General, and Mr. Jurgen Cassar, Head of Communications and Research. The Chief Ombudsman of Türkiye was accompanied by Ms. Hande Hazneci and Mr. Erhan Aydogdu, experts.