The Ombudsperson of the Republic of Kosovo, Mr. Naim Qelaj, has been elected as a member of the Board of Directors of the Association of Mediterranean Ombudsmen (AOM) during the AOM General Assembly held on October 16, 2025, in Malta.

Mr. Qelaj’s election to this governing structure represents an important recognition of the work, professionalism, and contribution of the Ombudsperson Institution of Kosovo in advancing the principles of good governance, the protection of human rights, and the strengthening of democratic institutions in the region.

The Association of Mediterranean Ombudsmen (AOM) is an international network that brings together ombudsman institutions and national human rights mechanisms from Mediterranean countries, with the aim of promoting inter-institutional cooperation, sharing good practices, and upholding the values of the rule of law and public integrity.

Within his new mandate as a member of the Board of Directors, Mr. Naim Qelaj will contribute to the development of AOM’s strategies and policies, representing the voice and experience of the Ombudsperson Institution of Kosovo at the regional and international levels. In this role, he will oversee the Association’s activities, approve annual reports, prepare the AOM General Assembly and Congress, and assist in drafting policies and work plans for member institutions, thus promoting regional cooperation and the protection of human rights.

This election is a testimony to the trust and respect that our institution enjoys in the international arena, as well as an encouragement to continue the tireless work in protecting and promoting human rights in Kosovo.

The Ombudsperson Institution has been an institutional member of the Association of Mediterranean Ombudsmen (AOM) since 2016.