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Chief Ombudsman Mr. Mehmet Akarca, accompanied by experts from the Ombudsman Institution, attended an international conference in Italy as a speaker, upon the invitation of the Ombudsman of the Lazio Region and the President of the Coordination of Italian Ombudsmen, Dr. Marino Fardelli.

In his speech at the conference, organized within the scope of the 45th anniversary of the establishment of the Ombudsman in the Lazio Region, Chief Ombudsman gave information regarding the work and functioning of the Ombudsman Institution of Türkiye. He emphasized that the Ombudsman Institution contributes to enhancing the public service quality of the administration, ensuring good administration, advancing human rights, and promoting the culture of seeking legal remedies.

Chief Ombudsman Mr. Akarca emphasized that Ombudsmen are a bridge between the state and the citizens, and that they are defenders of citizens' rights, but this does not mean that Ombudsmen are against the administration. He stated that, on the contrary, Ombudsmen, with the work they carry out, actually give administrations the opportunity to explain themselves and express the reasons for their acts and actions.

“Ombudsman institutions play a key role in strengthening democracy, protecting human rights, and ensuring the rule of law.”

Acknowledging that the world is going through very challenging times, Chief Ombudsman Mr. Mehmet Akarca stated that; “Internal conflicts and wars continue in various parts of the world. On the other hand, climate change and the resulting forced migrations are rapidly increasing. While technology makes our lives easier, with digitalization and artificial intelligence, it is becoming increasingly difficult to protect personal data and private life, and to prevent hate speech and cyberbullying. In conflicts or migrations, the most affected groups are undoubtedly the vulnerable ones. Among these groups, women and children are unfortunately the most targeted and most affected by cyberbullying. As human rights advocates, our duties and responsibilities as Ombudsmen are growing and becoming more challenging every day. Ombudsman institutions play a key role in strengthening democracy, protecting human rights, and ensuring the rule of law.”

Chief Ombudsman Mr. Akarca underscored the importance of cooperation among Ombudsman Institutions in Mediterranean countries, stating; “Our cooperation and solidarity are crucial for ensuring peace, stability, and prosperity in the Mediterranean, as well as for strengthening democracy and human rights. This is undoubtedly true for all regions.”

Drawing attention to the humanitarian tragedy in Gaza within his speech at the international conference, Chief Ombudsman stated that; “Since 7 October 2023, 50,000 innocent civilians have been killed in the massacres committed by Israel in Gaza, 70% of whom were women and children. This is a tragedy for humanity and a moral test that requires the collective responsibility of all mankind.”

Noting that Türkiye is more experienced than Europe in terms of migration resulting from conflicts and civil wars, Mr. Akarca expressed that; “For more than 10 years, our country has hosted more than 3.5 million Syrian refugees fleeing from internal conflicts in Syria since 2011. Recently, with the latest developments, voluntary returns have begun, so this number is decreasing. However, over this long period, we have gained unique experiences as a country in terms of the public services we provide to refugees, the challenges faced, and the solutions implemented. Since migration and refugees are global issues, I wanted to share this as an example. As the Republic of Türkiye and the Ombudsman Institution of Türkiye, we would like to remind everyone that we are always ready to share our experiences and cooperate.”

Chief Ombudsman Mr. Mehmet Akarca Had Various Meetings in Italy

Within the framework of the conference hosted by the Ombudsman of the Lazio Region, Chief Ombudsman Mr. Mehmet Akarca had a meeting with the Parliamentary Ombudsman of Malta, Judge Joseph Zammit McKeon. During the meeting, the importance and continuation of cooperation and collaboration between the Ombudsman Institutions of both countries were discussed.

During his visit to Italy, Chief Ombudsman Mr. Akarca also paid a visit to the Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to Rome, Ms. Elif Çomoğlu Ülgen, offering his congratulations and best wishes for success in her new role. He also signed the official memorial book of the Embassy.