The Institution Introduction
Role of the National Ombudsman in the Netherlands
The institution of National Ombudsman is established in order to give individuals an opportunity to place complaints about the practices of government before an independent and expert body. The mechanism works alongside existing provision, such as Parliament, the courts, and internal complaints procedures. Applying to the Ombudsman may result in steps being taken in particular cases (perhaps contrary to the authority's original intention), and, in a broader context, help to restore public confidence in government. In view of this role vis-à-vis the individual, the National Ombudsman Act deliberately elects to make a single person, the National Ombudsman, represent the institution in the eyes of the outside world, as a counterbalance to an often faceless bureaucracy. Read more...
Role of the National Ombudsman abroad
The Office of the National Ombudsman of the Netherlands is also engaged in a variety of international activities. For example, the office is a member of several global and European network organisations. In addition, the National Ombudsman assists newly democratic states in the organisational and functional development of recently established ombudsman offices.
For more information, see: International cooperation.