MPs will now elect the Ombudsman by an open ballot, as amendments to the Ombudsman Act have passed second reading.

Proposals for a public advocate can be made not only by MPs and parliamentary groups, but also non-profit legal entities. And additional requirement for the post is experience in the field of human rights.

The Deputy Ombudsman will also be elected by an open ballot, at the proposal of the Ombudsman. The selection and appointment of employees in the institution should respect the principles of transparency, efficiency, pluralism and non-discrimination.

The amendments give the Ombudsman new competences: to make proposals and recommendations to encourage and protect threatened rights and freedoms of the citizens from private legal entities, as well as to monitor and encourage the effective implementation of signed and ratified international acts in the field of human rights. It will be mandatory to inform the Ombudsman when drafting legislative acts, so that he or she can prepare opinions on the legislative aspect of their powers as a national prevention mechanism.

Pursuant to the Act, the Ombudsman is a public advocate who encourages and protects human rights and fundamental freedoms. The Ombudsman shall be an advocate using the measures provided by law, in case when an action or the lack of action by persons in charge of providing public services, or private legal entities, affect or violate the rights and freedoms of citizens from the government and municipal authorities and their administrations.