OSCE Mission to Skopje supports campaign to spread knowledge about role of Ombudsman

SKOPJE, 9 September 2008 - An OSCE-supported public campaign launched in Skopje today aims to raise public awareness about the role and functions of the Ombudsman so that the public can co-operate with the institution.

The public awareness campaign, featuring public meetings with the Ombudsman and pamphlets with the theme "You have rights, protect them!", will be held in the 15 locations where the Ombudsman institution has regional offices.

"Our common goal is to make sure the citizens are fully aware of their legal rights and obligations, and that those who really need Ombudsman support can get it," said the Head of OSCE Mission to Skopje, Ambassador Giorgio Radicati. "The Ombudsman's work not only empowers citizens and strengthens democracy, but also widens access to justice and helps reinforce the rule of law."

National Ombudsman Ixhet Memeti added: "I sincerely believe that activities of this type, carried out throughout the country, will help raise citizens' awareness of their rights and modalities for their protection, which represents a fundamental goal of our work."

The campaign, organized by the OSCE Mission to Skopje, is paid for by the Swedish International Development Agency.