Prishtina, November 22, 2024 – The Ombudsperson, Mr. Naim Qelaj, and his associates hosted the newly appointed judges with whom they discussed human rights, the justice system, and the work of the Ombudsperson’s Institution.

The Ombudsperson Qelaj initially spoke about the history of the institution, which marks 24 years this month since its establishment, and emphasized that the Institution is increasingly strengthening its role in protecting and promoting human rights.

He then spoke about his role and mandate, the work and activities of the Institution, as well as the work of the Ombudsperson related to the judiciary underlining its important role in protection of rights and respecting the standard for a fair and impartial trial.

The Ombudsperson said that the biggest complaints of citizens are related to delays in court proceedings, which adds to the immediate need to increase the efficiency of the courts.

The Ombudsperson also explained that on occasion he provides opinions in the capacity of amicus curie, then the Ombudsperson’s role in disciplinary proceedings against judges, providing assistance to victims of discrimination, providing recommendations to public institutions for the implementation of obligations in the field of prohibition of discrimination and equality, referring cases to the Constitutional Court and other mechanisms determined by special laws.

The young judges had the opportunity to address questions about other fields that the Ombudsperson has in his mandate, and in particular issues related to the judiciary.

The Academy of Justice organizes a one-year training for newly appointed judges, where in addition to practical training in the courts, judges who are following the initial training conduct visits to various institutions of the Republic of Kosovo.

He congratulated the new judges on their new duties, wishing them success in their work.