Context
A high measure of social injustice prevails in Latin America, frequently coupled with violations of human rights. Socially disadvantaged population groups are particularly affected by this. On the other hand, Latin American states have made binding commitments in international agreements to protect human rights.
Alongside the judiciary, the national ombudspersons have the task of supporting people whose rights have been violated and ensuring that justice is done. However, the scope of action of the ombudspersons’ offices in promoting human rights within the national systems is frequently limited.
That is why the Ibero-American Federation of Ombudsmen (FIO) was set up at regional level in 1995 to improve the exchange of experiences between the ombudsperson authorities in Latin America and thus to contribute more effectively to protecting human rights.
So far, however, the basic prerequisites for undertaking this task are still largely lacking. There is no common regional procedure for tackling violations of human rights and the FIO is only partly able to fulfil its functions.
Objective
The FIO is established in the region as a service provider for systematic exchanges between its members on human rights issues.
Approach
The measure promotes cooperation and information sharing between the national ombudsperson authorities, thus building capacities, and at the same time strengthening the FIO as a regional federation.
The FIO is supported via sectoral, policy and process advisory services in drafting and implementing a strategic multi-year plan for the period up to 2015, systematically analysing cases of national ombudsperson authorities and documenting the transfer of knowledge and experience between members on specific issues.
By enabling comparability and identifying the need for action, foundations are also being laid for a monitoring system addressing human rights violations, and a strategy plan is being produced to support its development.
Results achieved so far
The thematic networks of the FIO have been activated by the sector-specific advisory services provided for this measure. The Technical Secretariat has been established in Buenos Aires and manages the organisational affairs of the FIO. At the same time, a need for action to build further capacities has been identified. Consensus has been reached on the need for medium-term strategy planning. Key projects for network formation, monitoring and experience sharing between members have been agreed with strategic partners.