The ombudsman as a protector of fundamental personal rights

The nature and history of the office of ombudsman are discussed. In African countries ombudsmen are still rare. A survey has shown that two-thirds of complaints are unjustified. In most countries, not having the power to alter decisions means that the ombudsman can only function in a democratic society. The major infringement of an individual's rights is the result of government action. In democratic societies attempts are made to contain infringements within limits based upon the demands of social existence, and it is here that the ombudsman plays his role.