OMBUDSMAN ENDRIT SHABANI ELECTED PRESIDENT OF THE MEDITERRANEAN ASSOCIATION OF OMBUDSMEN (AOM) BY UNANIMOUS VOTE BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The Ombudsman Institution announces that the Board of Directors of the Association of Mediterranean Ombudsmen (AOM), a regional organization that unites human rights institutions of the Mediterranean basin, has officially voted to entrust the leadership of the organization to the Ombudsman of Albania, Mr. Endrit Shabani. All members of the Board of Directors participated in the voting process, which confirmed the unanimous support for the candidacy of Mr. Shabani.

The Association of Mediterranean Ombudsmen (AOM), founded in 2008 in Marseille, is a strategic network that unites human rights institutions from Europe, Africa and Asia. With the main mission of promoting good governance, the rule of law and social peace, this organization serves as a platform for the exchange of experiences and best practices between the countries of the Mediterranean basin. The selection of the People's Advocate of Albania at the head of this association comes as a continuation of an active contribution of our institution over the years, which has held leadership roles and the presidency during the 2014-2016 and 2016-2019 mandates.

By assuming this duty, the People's Advocate reconfirms the commitment to strengthen the voice and independence of counterpart institutions and to ensure respect for citizens' rights in the face of executive power on three continents, at a time when the challenges of administrative accountability and the protection of civil liberties remain global priorities.

Also, this platform will serve as a bridge of communication and protection for all Albanian citizens living, working or studying in the countries of the Mediterranean region. Through close cooperation with the AOM's member institutions, the Ombudsman will be able to mediate and assist more effectively in cases where the rights of our compatriots are violated by local authorities in these countries. This international network guarantees that the voice of Albanian citizens is heard and protected wherever the mandate of this association extends.