Newsroom
OSCE Mission welcomes adoption of Ombudsman Law in Montenegro
BELGRADE/PODGORICA 10 July 2003
BELGRADE/PODGORICA, 10 July 2003 - The Head of the OSCE Mission to Serbia and Montenegro, Ambassador Maurizio Massari, has welcomed the recent adoption of the Law on the protector of human rights and freedoms (Ombudsman-type law) in Montenegro. The Law, adopted by the Montenegrin parliament on 8 July, aims to defend human rights and liberties.
"The OSCE Mission welcomes the adoption of this law and looks forward to its full implementation," said Ambassador Massari. "The importance of an Ombudsman institution in a democratic society is based on the fact that it is independent from the executive branch of power and therefore acts as one of the checks and balances in a democratic system."
"However, in order for the Law to be implemented successfully, it is important for the public to understand the role of the Ombudsman," he added.
In order to build public awareness and understanding of the role of the Ombudsman institution, the OSCE Mission - through its Office in Podgorica - has already assisted in the implementation of public awareness campaigns, with special emphasis upon minority and women's rights.
The new law allows for the appointment of an Ombudsman within three months. The decisions of the Ombudsman are not legally binding, but nevertheless the Ombudsman can point out legal and technical shortcomings and raise these with the responsible authorities.
"The OSCE Mission welcomes the adoption of this law and looks forward to its full implementation," said Ambassador Massari. "The importance of an Ombudsman institution in a democratic society is based on the fact that it is independent from the executive branch of power and therefore acts as one of the checks and balances in a democratic system."
"However, in order for the Law to be implemented successfully, it is important for the public to understand the role of the Ombudsman," he added.
In order to build public awareness and understanding of the role of the Ombudsman institution, the OSCE Mission - through its Office in Podgorica - has already assisted in the implementation of public awareness campaigns, with special emphasis upon minority and women's rights.
The new law allows for the appointment of an Ombudsman within three months. The decisions of the Ombudsman are not legally binding, but nevertheless the Ombudsman can point out legal and technical shortcomings and raise these with the responsible authorities.