ISLAMABAD, Dec 03 (APP):Wafaqi Mohtasib, Ejaz Ahmad Qureshi has said that addressing maladmini
stration and protection of human rights is inextricably linked to good governance, accountability and inclusivity.
Addressing an International Ombudsman Summit – 2024 in Hong Kong organized on the eve
of the 35th anniversary
of the establishment
of the Office
of the Ombudsman in Hong Kong, China, said that the United Nations, too, recognizes the importance
of the institution
of the Ombudsman in strengthening democracy, good governance and the rule of law, said a press released issued on Tuesday.
Qureshi, who is the current President
of the 47-member strong Asian Ombudsman Association (AOA), said that good admini
stration and efficient service delivery constitute the most essential features
of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
He said that these goals have a direct bearing on the role and functions of Ombudsman institutions working to build peaceful and inclusive societies, accountable institutions at all levels and providing easy access to justice. He added that the scope of work of Ombudsman institutions is witnessing speedy expansion and now includes issues like climate change, business rights, public accessibility and inclusivity.
Alluding to Pakistan’s experience, Qureshi said that Ombudsmanship has taken firm roots in the country. He said that following the success of Wafaqi Mohtasib Institution in providing free and expeditious admini
strative jus
tice to the general public, the concept has been replicated in other essential areas impacting the welfare
of the general public.
He said that 14 Ombudsman Institutions are functioning in the country at the Federal and Provincial levels and contributing to improving service delivery
of the government agencies in their respective areas of competence.
The International Ombudsman Summit at Hong Kong is being attended by over 140 Overseas participants, representatives
of the UN bodies including a large number
of the member institutions
of the AOA.
