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PRESS RELEASE

Swiss Chairperson-in-Office discusses next steps with Foreign Ministers of Ukraine and the Russian Federation

Bern, July 14, 2014 - In telephone conversations with the Ukrainian and the Russian Foreign Ministers today, the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office and Swiss Foreign Minister; Didier Burkhalter, reiterated the OSCE’s support in various ongoing de-escalation efforts.

Burkhalter, in two phone calls with the Ukrainian Foreign Minister, Pavlo Klimkin, and the Russian Foreign Minister, Sergey Lavrov, stressed the importance and urgency of talks of the trilateral contact group with leaders of illegally armed groups in the eastern region of Ukraine in order to prepare the ground for discussions regarding a ceasefire. Burkhalter emphasized that no further time should be lost as the OSCE had been working towards setting up a videoconference in this framework for days and was expecting the support and goodwill by all sides involved in this regard.

The OSCE is ready to monitor a ceasefire as soon as a political agreement is reached, Burkhalter said. He assured his interlocutors that the OSCE could also play a role in the facilitation of the release of hostages and detainees. Both interlocutors welcomed this proposal and suggested that the CiO and the Special Monitoring Mission should look further into this issue.

In both conversations, Burkhalter discussed the proposal of the Russian Federation to pass a decision regarding the OSCE monitoring at two Russian border points. Given the political will of both sides to see the OSCE take up such an additional role, Burkhalter mentioned that he would ask all participating States to contribute constructively and pragmatically to an early consensus on the respective mandate. He added that a needs assessment mission by the OSCE should be deployed as soon as possible in this regard.

Burkhalter pointed out that the OSCE was also accelerating plans to potentially use, within the SMM mandate, drones for monitoring, including in the border area. He welcomed that both ministers signaled their support for such a measure.

Following the formal request by the Ukrainian government, the OSCE Chairmanship is now also consulting on extending the mandate of the SMM for another six months beyond the expiration of its current mandate on September 20 2014, Burkhalter said. He expected a decision later this month. Finally, Burkhalter suggested that an inclusive dialogue with peaceful citizens, mentioned as a key pillar in the Peace Plan of President Poroshenko, should be relaunched as soon as possible.

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PRESS RELEASE

Latest from the Special Monitoring Mission (SMM) in Ukraine based on information received until 13 July 2014, 18:00 (Kyiv time)

The situation in the central-southern part of the Luhansk region and the central part of the Donetsk region remained volatile. There were reports of heavy fighting in and around Luhansk city. Other parts of the country remained calm.

The situation in the central-southern part of the Luhansk region and the central part of the Donetsk region remained volatile.

There was a reported movement of a significant amount of military hardware across the Russian-Ukrainian border. A senior military Ukrainian officer speaking to the SMM on 13 July, stated that a column of tanks and other military hardware had entered Ukraine from the Russian Federation at Zelenopolie border crossing point on that day. The officer claimed that the artillery pieces (MT12 ‘Rapira’) and trucks (KAMAS, URAL), captured in a video image, were not issued to the Ukrainian army. The column, according to the military officer, was later seen in Luhansk city and was on the move, in the direction of Donetsk city. The SMM is currently not in a position to verify this information, but will follow up.

On 12 July, the SMM went to Kramatorsk. A sense of normality prevailed in the city. The SMM learnt that pensions and salaries have been paid. With the exception of the very centre, where houses had been highly damaged by shelling, the SMM saw little sign of fighting or shelling.

Electricity and gas were provided. However, water supply had not been restored. Water was provided by water trucks, free of charge, by the city administration in big containers located at public places.

Some trolleybuses were working. However, the railway station was still closed and secured by a shared patrol of police officers and Ukrainian Army soldiers.

The roads were cleaned and former checkpoints were being cleaned by inhabitants. Local inhabitants also cleaned the building of school n°34 which was heavily hit.

The hospital was open and appeared to work without difficulties. Water was brought by a truck to the hospital.

On 12 July, the SMM observed a bridge in Starobilsk, which had sustained damage from what seemed like shrapnel fragments.  The bridge was impassable.  

The situation in Donetsk city remained tense. According to media, in the south-west suburbs (Marinka) there was fighting, involving heavy artillery. At 4.00 AM in the Petrovsky district of Donetsk, air raid sirens were wailing and bomb shelters were open. There was limited public transport.

The SMM observed that there were not many people and vehicles on the streets. There were armed individuals and groups in camouflage on the streets. No police was observed.  

The SMM paid a visit to the city police department of Donetsk. The senior duty inspector explained that the police in the town continued to operate with limited staff.

The SMM observed a minivan with four irregular armed personnel approaching the city police building and parking the car about 70 metres from the entrance to the building.

In Kharkiv, the situation remained calm. On 13 July the SMM monitored rallies by supporters and opponents of Ukraine’s unity in Kharkiv’s city centre. The SMM saw approximately 200 supporters of Ukraine’s unity, predominantly young activists, whereas the 150 opponents of Ukraine’s unity were mostly elderly people. Approximately 100 police officers were present.

The situation in Dnipropetrovsk, Kherson, Odessa, Chernivtsi, Ivano-Frankivsk and Lviv was calm.

In Dnipropetrovsk, the SMM met with the head and the deputy head of the ‘Svoboda’ party branch of Pavlohrad, which claimed to have 200 members. The interlocutors explained that ‘Svoboda’ had created its own battalion, named ‘Sich’, which operates under the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and was likely to be deployed to the east in a few weeks. The interlocutor said some members were already undergoing training in Kyiv.

In Odessa, the SMM followed up reports of explosions at two Privat Bank branches on the night of 12 and 13 July. At the first location, the Privat Bank office showed clear signs of an explosion that had caused external damage to a wall, which was left without windows or doors. At the second location, the Privat Bank office was severely damaged. All glass in the windows and at the entrance way was broken. It seemed that the damage was not caused by an explosion, but most likely by a fire.

The situation in Kyiv remained calm.

Nina Karpachova: “I ​​believe that the Ukrainian people have enough wisdom and fortitude to stop the fratricidal confrontation and preserve the integrity of Ukraine”

APPEAL

OF THE FIRST UKRAINIAN PARLIAMENT COMMISSIONER

FOR HUMAN RIGHTS

It is with deep sorrow and pain in my heart that I have been following the situation in the East of the country and in the city of Odessa. As a woman and mother, I sincerely sympathize and share the great tragedy that befell the families and friends of those who were killed and injured in recent times in Kharkov, Donetsk, Slavyansk, Kramatorsk, Odessa and other Ukrainian cities as a result of the civil confrontation, as well as the anti-terrorist operation.

It seemed that the massacre of hundreds of civilians at the Independence Square in February this year, caused by the anti-terrorist operation of the regime of Yanukovych,  would become a tragic lesson for the society and authorities and show that the life and human dignity must be respected in the first place. Today, however, the political discord and geopolitical interests again brought the country to the extreme features: there are dozens killed people in the peacetime, alternative views of our countrymen cause a reaction of hatred and aggression.

Today news lines in the media mostly resemble reports from the war. The country is being pushed to a full-scale civil war. Only stopped violent confrontation and shifting of the conflict from the military dimension to the public dialogue can prevent it.

I call on the authorities, politicians, business elite and public activists of goodwill in the West and East of the country to immediately start building a common ground between themselves, and help to find a compromise in the society.

Terrible tragedy that occurred in Odessa on the second of May must stop all parties of the confrontation and lead them to discontinuation of the use of violent methods for achieving their goals at the cost of human life. After all, we know from history that any confrontation always ends with reconciliation, but the loss of human life is irreparable and leaves deep scars in the hearts and minds of the people! Therefore, the government, politicians and society must stop the fratricidal confrontation now and start looking for the ways for such reconciliation.

Only recognition of the opposite side as the subject of the negotiation process, and not as an enemy, can be the first step towards reconciliation. The unconditional guarantee of human rights, human dignity and personal integrity to all citizens of Ukraine must form the basis for reconciliation and solution of the current crisis. All the hostages and arbitrarily detained persons must be unconditionally released! Every crime that led to the loss of life must be investigated, with the arguments of all parties to the conflict thoroughly studied.

I fully support the suggestions of the German Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr. Frank-Walter Steinmeier and call on the Ukrainian authorities to make the maximum use of the negotiation instruments of the OSCE as the platform for searching compromise and building a dialogue of trust between the authorities and the whole society.  In my capacity as a Board Member of the European Ombudsman Institute I stand ready to facilitate this process of the peaceful resolution of the civil conflict.

I urge the authorities to undertake comprehensive steps for the full implementation of the Geneva Agreements of 17 April 2014, in particular with regard to the disarmament of all illegal armed groups.

I ​​believe that the Ukrainian people have enough wisdom and fortitude to stop the fratricidal confrontation and preserve the integrity of Ukraine

Нина Карпачева: «Верю в то, что Украинский народ имеет достаточно мудрости и силы духа, чтобы прекратить братоубийственное противостояние и сохранить целостность Украины»

ОБРАЩЕНИЕ ПЕРВОГО УПОЛНОМОЧЕННОГО ВЕРХОВНОЙ РАДЫ УКРАИНЫ ПО ПРАВАМ ЧЕЛОВЕКА

С глубокой скорбью и болью в сердце переживаю ситуацию на Востоке страны и в городе Одесса. Как женщина и мать искренне сочувствую и разделяю ту большую трагедию,которая постигла родных и близких всех, кто погиб и пострадал в последнее время в Харькове, Донецке, Славянске, Краматорске, Одессе и в других украинских городах в результате гражданского противостояния, а также проведения антитеррористической операции.

Казалось бы, что массовые убийства более сотни мирных людей на Майдане Независимости в феврале этого года, к которым привела начатая тогда режимом Януковича антитеррористическая операция, должны были стать трагическим уроком для общества и власти, ведь,прежде всего, следует ценить жизнь и человеческое достоинство. Однако, сегодня политическое противостояние и геополитические интересы снова довели страну до крайней черты: в мирное время десятками гибнут люди, разные взгляды наших соотечественников вызывают реакцию взаимной ненависти и агрессии.

Сегодня новости в СМИ в большинстве своем напоминают фронтовые сводки. Страну толкают к полномасштабной гражданской войне. Помешать этому может только прекращение силового противостояния и перевод конфликта с военной плоскости в плоскость общественного диалога.

Призываю власть, политиков, бизнес-элиту и общественных деятелей доброй воли на Западе и Востоке страны немедленно начать искать взаимопонимание и помочь найти компромисс в обществе.

Страшная трагедия, которая произошла в Одессе второго мая, должна остановить всех участников противостояния и побудить к прекращению силовых методов достижения своих целей ценой человеческой жизни. Ведь мы знаем из истории, что любое противостояние всегда заканчивается примирением, но потеря человеческой жизни является непоправимой и оставляет глубокие шрамы в сердцах и памяти людей! Поэтому сейчас власть, политики и общество должны остановить братоубийственное противостояние и начать поиск путей для такого примирения.

Первым шагом к примирению может быть только признание противоположной стороны в качестве субъекта переговорного процесса, а не как врага. Основой для примирения и выхода из текущего кризиса должно стать безусловное гарантирование соблюдения прав человека, человеческого достоинства и личной неприкосновенности всем гражданам Украины. Должны быть безусловно освобождены все заложники и безосновательно задержанные! Все преступления, которые привели к гибели людей,должны быть расследованы с учетом аргументов всех сторон конфликта.

Полностью поддерживаю предложения Министра иностранных дел ФРГ Франка-Вальтера Штайнмайера и призываю украинские власти максимально использовать переговорные инструменты ОБСЕ, как площадку для поиска компромисса и налаживания доверительного диалога власти и общества. Как член Правления Европейского института Омбудсмана готова содействовать в этом процессе мирного разрешения гражданского конфликта.

Призываю власти принять исчерпывающие шаги для полной реализации Женевских соглашений от17 апреля 2014 года, в частности по разоружению всех незаконных формирований.

Верю в то, что Украинский народ имеет достаточно мудрости и силы духа, чтобы прекратить братоубийственное противостояния и сохранить целостность Украины мирным путем.

Члены Правления ЕИО: первый омбудсмен Украины Нина Карпачева, Омбудсмен Свердловской области Татьяна Мерзлякова, президент ЕИО Бурги Волжер и генеральный секретарь ЕИО Жозеф Зигле.

Европейский институт Омбудсмана обратился к своим коллегам с предложением участвовать в сборе гуманитарной помощи для жителей Украины

События последнего времени в Украине не оставляют никого равнодушными. Столкновения между противоборствующими силами привели к многочисленным жертвам. Пока в стране делаются хрупкие попытки для восстановления работы государственных институтов власти, которая будет заботиться о своих гражданах, Гуманитарные организации и международные институты собирают помощь для пострадавших.

Одной из таких организаций, обратившейся к своим единомышленникам, стал Европейский институт Омбудсмана. Генеральный секретарь Жозеф Зигле обратился к членам ЕИО с предложением принять участие в оказании гуманитарной помощи гражданам Украины, пострадавшим во время последних событий. Функцию координатора ЕОИ в Украине будет исполнять член Президиума ЕИО, первый омбудсмен Украины, Нина Карпачева.

Редакция журнала «Европейский омбудсман» присоединяется к призыву нашего института и обращается также к своим читателям, в том числе Уполномоченным по правам человека, Уполномоченным по правам ребенка и Уполномоченным по защите прав предпринимателей в субъектах Российской Федерации присоединиться к этому благородному делу нашего единого сообщества.

По всем вопросам оказания гуманитарной помощи пострадавшим жителям Украины можно обращаться к Нине Ивановне Карпачевой по электронной почте: first.ombudsman@gmail.com.

Andreasyan informs the EOI about the Human Right Situation in Kessab

The European Ombudsman Institute is a human rights network which comprises of national and regional ombudsman institutions of Europe, scientific institutions and representatives of lawyer’s networks from across wider Europe.

 Concerning the human rights situation in Syria - KESSAB, the EOI were informed by the Ombudsman of Armenia, Mr. Karen Andreasyan,  in his function as national Ombudsman of the Republic of Armenia and about the results of his special human rights monitoring and mediation mission for the Armenian people and minority there.

 The efforts should be continued for the protection of human rights in this region and promotion of peaceful resolution for the crisis in this country under very challenging and dramatic circumstances as well as a constructive cooperation with the civil society and international organisations, on the basis of the international law.

 As a member of the EOI, the Armenian Ombudsman is playing an important role for the protection and promotion of human rights for the Armenians in  Kessab through his human rights monitoring and mediation mission, and calls on all concerned parties to provide him with all necessary cooperation and assistance. 

 EOI strongly recommends and urges all concerned parties in Syria to install a peaceful and direct dialogue on solving the current crisis in the spirit of the principles of the international human rights law.

 Karen Andreasyan, Ombudsman Armenia

European Ombudsman Institute (EOI) -  a Network of European Ombudsman Institutions

European Ombudsman Institute,

Registered address:  A-6020 Innsbruck – Salurner Straße 4, Austria

Tel.  +43 (0)512 566910, Mob.  +43 (0) 664 161 4233

Email: eoi@tirol.com

The European Ombudsman Institute is a human rights network with consulting status with the Council of Europe which comprises national and regional ombudsman institutions of Europe, scientific institutions and representatives of lawyer’s networks from across wider Europe.

 During the European Ombudsman Institute Board meeting in Vilnius, decisions for different Human Rights projects in Europe, as well as the project with the University of Florence were made.

Concerning the human rights situation in Ukraine, the EOI board members were informed by the First Ombudsman of Ukraine Nina Karpachova, in her function as Executive board member, about the results of her special human rights monitoring and mediation mission in Ukraine.

 On the occasion of its General Board Meeting and Executive Board Meeting at the Lithuanian Parliament in Vilnius, the European Ombudsman Institute (EOI) made the following Statement on the Human Rights situation in Ukraine.

 Under the EOI Board mandate, the First Ombudsman of Ukraine Nina Karpachova has been playing an important role for the protection and promotion of human rights in the territory of Ukraine through her human rights monitoring and mediation mission.

 We welcome her continued efforts for the protection of human rights throughout Ukraine and promotion of peaceful resolution for the crisis in her country under very challenging and dramatic circumstances as well as her constructive cooperation with the civil society and international organisations.

 EOI shall continue the human rights and mediation mission of the EOI Executive Board member Nina Karpachova in Ukraine and calls on all concerned parties to provide First Ombudsman of Ukraine with all necessary cooperation and assistance.

 EOI takes note of the UN General Assembly Resolution adopted by the majority of the UN Member States on 27 March 2014 on the territorial integrity of Ukraine and supports the statements of the OSCE and Council of Europe with regard to the full respect for and preservation of the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.

 EOI strongly recommends and urges all concerned parties to install a peaceful and direct dialogue on solving the current crisis in Ukraine in the spirit of the principles of the international human rights law.

 Burgi Volgger, President,

Josef Siegele, Secretary General

Augustinas Normantas, OM Lithuania

Vilnius, 28.03.2014

Європейський інститут Омбудсмана (ЄІО) – об’єднання європейських інституцій Омбудсмана

European Ombudsman Institute,

Registered address:  A-6020 Innsbruck – Salurner Straße 4, Austria

Tel.  +43 (0)512 566910, Mob.  +43 (0) 664 161 4233

Email: eoi@tirol.com

Європейський інститут Омбудсмана є правозахисним об’єднанням з консультативним статусом при Раді Європи, в склад якого входять національні і регіональні інституції Омбудсмана Європи, наукові заклади та представники правничих організацій з різних країн Європи.

Під час засідання Правління ЄІО у Вільнюсі, були ухвалені різні рішення щодо правозахисних проектів в Європі, зокрема також проекту з Університетом Флоренції.

Стосовно ситуації з правами людини в Україні, члени Правління ЄІО були поінформовані Першим Омбудсманом України Ніною Карпачовою, яка є членом Виконавчого комітету ЄІО, про результати її спеціальної моніторингової і медіаторської місії в Україні.

З нагоди засідання Правління і Виконавчого комітету в Парламенті Литовської Республіки у Вільнюсі, Європейський Інститут Омбудсмана (ЄІО) зробив наступну заяву щодо прав людини в Україні.

В рамках мандату Правління ЄІО, Перший Омбудсман України Ніна Карпачова відіграє важливу роль в захисті і просуванні прав людини на території України шляхом здійснення моніторингової і медіаторської місії.

Ми вітаємо її зусилля щодо захисту прав людини в Україні і пошуку мирних шляхів вирішення кризи в країні в дуже складних і драматичних умовах, а також конструктивну співпрацю з громадянським суспільством та міжнародними організаціями.

ЄІО подовжує правозахисну і медіаторську місію члена Виконавчого комітету ЕІО Ніни Карпачової в України і закликає усі зацікавлені сторони до співпраці і підтримки Першого Омбудсмана України.

ЄІО бере до уваги Резолюцію Генеральної Асамблеї ООН, ухвалену більшістю голосів країн-членів ООН 27 березня 2014 року, щодо територіальної цілісності України і підтримує заклики ОБСЄ та Ради Європи щодо поваги і дотримання незалежності, суверенітету і територіальної цілісності України.

ЄІО настійно рекомендує і закликає усі зацікавлені сторони до встановлення мирного і безпосереднього діалогу щодо подолання поточної кризи в Україні в дусі принципів міжнародного права з прав людини.

Бургі Фольггер, Президент

Джозеф Зігеле, Генеральний Секретар

Августінас Нормантас, Омбудсман Литовської Республіки

Вільнюс, 28.03.2014

English and Russian Version: 

             Official Appeal Nina Karpachova to Mrs. Ella Panfilova the new Human Rights Commissioner of the Russian Federation 

Appeal  23.03.2014 Dear Mrs. Panfilova,

Уполномоченному

по правам человека  

в Российской Федерации

Панфиловой Э. А.

Обращение

Глубокоуважаемая Элла Александровна!

Зная Вас, как человека глубоко порядочного и отстаивающего всегда гуманистическую позицию в области прав и свобод человека, хочу обратиться к Вам, как к избранному Омбудсману Российской Федерации, который входит в состав Европейского института Омбудсмана в качестве институционального члена.

По поручению Генерального Секретаря ЕИО, как Первый Омбудсман Украины и член Правления ЕИО осуществляю мониторинг соблюдения прав и свобод человека в Автономной Республике Крым и г. Севастополе, по итогам которого 27 марта 2014 года буду представлять доклад на заседании Правления ЕИО в г. Вильнюсе.

Обращаюсь к Вам в связи с тем, что 22 марта 2014 года в Севастополе был насильно задержан командир части А4515 204 бригады Севастопольской тактической авиации в г. Севастополе полковник Юлий Валерьевич Мамчур. Первоначально ему заявили, что его увозят на переговоры с руководством ЧФ России. По моей информации вчера в 21:30 час. с ним лично встречался командующий Черноморским флотом России контр-адмирал                 Александр Витко. После чего он был задержан и незаконно содержится на гауптвахте ЧФ России в Севастополе по ул. Бакинской.

Его супруга, Лариса Ивановна Мамчур, лишена возможности не только встретиться с ним, но и получить какую-либо информацию о судьбе своего мужа.

Обращаю Ваше внимание, что незаконное насильственное задержание полковника Ю.Мамчура и принудительное его содержание на гауптвахте       ЧФ России противоречит европейским и международным стандартам в области прав и свобод человека, в частности: Европейской конвенции о защите прав и основополагающих свобод человека 1950 года, Европейской конвенции по предупреждению пыток и бесчеловечного или унижающего достоинство обращения или наказания 1987 года, Конвенции ООН против пыток и других жестоких, бесчеловечных или унижающих достоинство видов обращения и наказания 1984 года, Минимальных стандартных правил обращения с заключенными 1955 года, Основных принципов обращения с заключенными (Резолюция 45/111 Генеральной Ассамблеи ООН от 14.12.1990 г.).

Прошу Вас, глубокоуважаемая Элла Александровна, обратиться к Министру обороны РФ Сергею Шойгу с целью защиты прав и свобод гражданина Украины полковника Юлия Мамчура и содействовать в его немедленном освобождении.

Надеюсь на Ваше понимание и незамедлительную реакцию в отношении судьбы полковника Юлия Мамчура.

С глубоким уважением,

                                                                                         Нина Карпачева

 Appeal  Karpachova,  23.03.2014  (English Version)

to Mrs. Ella Panfilova the new Human Rights Commissioner of the Russian Federation

Dear Mrs. Panfilova  

 I know you as a very decent person with strong dedication to the humanism in the sphere of human rights and freedoms and would like to address to you as the newly elected Ombudsperson of the Russian Federation and ex-officio institutional member of the European Ombudsman Institute.   

Under the assignment from the EOI Secretary General as the First Ombudsman of Ukraine and EOI Executive Board Member I have been monitoring human rights situation in the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and Sevastopol city and will present the report on its outcomes at the EOI Board meeting in Vilnius on 27 March 2014. 

I would like to address to you with regard to the fact that there was forcibly arrested the commander of the Ukrainian military unit А4515 of the 204 Brigade of the Sevastopol tactical air-force Colonel Yulii Mamchur on 22 March 2014. First he was said that he would be taken for negotiations with the leadership of the Black Sea fleet of the Russian Federation. According to my information, yesterday at 21:30 he had a personal meeting with the commander of the Russian Black Sea fleet Rear Admiral Aleksandr Vitko. After that he was forcibly arrested and illegally put to the military custody of the Russian Black Sea fleet in Sevastopol city, Bakinskaya street.   

His spouse Mrs. Larisa Mamchur was deprived of the opportunity not only to see him, but also to receive any information about his destiny.

I would like to note that the illegal and forcible arrest of the Colonel Yulii Mamchur as well as his forced detention in the military custody of the Russian Black Sea fleet contradicts to the European and International standards in the sphere of human rights and freedoms, in particular: the European Convention for the Protection of the Fundamental Human Rights and Freedoms of 1950;  the European Convention for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment of 1987;  the United Nations Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment of 1984;  Standard Minimum Rules for Treatment of Prisoners of 1955; Basic Principles for the Treatment of Prisoners (Resolution 45/111 UN General Assembly of 14 December 1990).

I appeal to you, dear Ella Aleksandrovna, and would be grateful if you could address to the Minister of Defense of the Russian Federation Mr. Sergey Shoigu to protect the rights and freedoms of the Ukrainian national Colonel Yulii Mamchur and assist in his immediate release.

I am looking forward to your understanding and prompt reaction with regard to the destiny of the Colonel Yulii Mamchur.

With best regards,

Nina Karpachova

Nina Karpachova: "I initiate an international roundtable on the Crimea under the auspices of the OSCE with the participation of Russia"
Statement of the First Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights, EOI Executive Board Member

Saturday, 01 March 2014, 16:00

http://www.first-ombudsman.org.ua/ru/nna-karpachova-nczyuyu-provedennya-mzhnarodnogo-kruglogo-stolu-po-krimu-pd-egdoyu-obs-za-uchastyu-r.html

The situation in Ukraine, unfortunately, has entered into a new phase of a dangerous confrontation. In these circumstances, the actions of the new government will be a crucial test for its strength, wisdom and legitimacy before all the Ukrainian people.

The decision of the new Parliament majority on the language issue has become a pretext for the use of the social and political crisis in our country for geopolitical interests. This decision caused the aggravated confrontation in the Autonomous Republic of Crimea. There appeared a high risk of the artificially provoked ethnic and inter-religious conflict among the inhabitants of the Crimea. Our country has again dangerously approached the risk of the civil war. Beyond this line is the loss of the sovereignty and integrity of Ukraine, and it is our duty to prevent it.

The peaceful and multiethnic population of the Crimea, which, on the one hand, together with the rest of Ukraine, suffered from the corrupt and criminal rule of the previous government, numerous gross violations of human rights and freedoms, the inability to exercise their right to free access to natural resources, and on the other – does not perceive policy of the nationalist pressure and rewriting history, will become hostage of such a tragic course of events in the first place.

I am sure that the separatist tensions do not meet the interests and beliefs of the overwhelming majority of the Crimeans. It is likely that the raising of Russian flags has not so much to do with the separatism, but is a sign that some groups of the society are concerned about their safety. At the same time, the slogans about federalization show the need for effective local self-government. Taking this into account, we should address the factors pushing the situation towards military escalation with balanced policy of peaceful resolution of the crisis and unconditional guarantee of the Budapest Memorandum of 1994.

It is the direct duty of the Parliament of Ukraine, the new government, as well as the authorities of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea to stop the growing threat to the peace and tranquility of the Crimea. It is very important to use all means of peaceful negotiations, mindful political steps and diplomatic influence to find tolerant solution to the situation.  The representatives of the Crimean Tatar should be included to the Crimean Government to avoid mistakes of 1994! It is also important to ensure that all representatives of the Crimean multiethnic community be able to make their voice heard in the referendum on the status of the Crimea.

I welcome the important step to suspend the decision of the Parliament to cancel the Law on State Language Policy. We should remember that our strength is in our unity and diversity!

As a board member of the European Ombudsman Institute and its representative for the Eastern Europe, I believe it is necessary to involve the effective instruments of the OSCE , in particular the High Commissioner on National Minorities, in the process of addressing the situation in the Crimea. I initiate an international roundtable on the Crimea under the auspices of the OSCE with the participation of the Russian Federation.

We all need to save the priceless treasure of our Crimean lands – social peace, respect for the dignity of every individual, human rights and freedoms!

Nina Karpachova: «HANDS OFF THE MAIDAN!»

Interview for the Radio Liberty, 18 February, 21:30

http://www.first-ombudsman.org.ua/en/ntervyu-nni-karpachovo-rado-svoboda-vd-18-lyutogo-ruki-get-vd-majdanu.html

Today, February 18, 2014, is a tragic Tuesday in Ukraine. Dispersing efforts against the peaceful Euromaidan under the pretext of the counter-terrorism operation is a full-scale provocation of civil war in Ukraine.

The responsibility for this rests fully on the authorities.

For the last hour and a half I am trying to reach the President of Ukraine Viktor Yanukovich on the phone. The operator of the Presidential Administration promised to put me through when the phone will be free.

Taking the opportunity of live broadcast at the Radio Liberty, I call on the President as the Guarantor of human rights and the Supreme Commander: to urgently give command to stop the armed assault on the peaceful protest at the Maidan, discontinue the use of water cannons, stun grenades, laser glare and throwing “Molotov cocktails”(petrol bomb) against protesters.

Escalating of the civil conflict into the civil war will result in numerous victims among the civilian population of Ukraine, but the authorities must understand that making war with the people will be fatal for themselves.

I urge the law enforcement authorities to stop, end the fratricidal action, because it is the beginning of the war with your own people, which is destined to absolute defeat.

I appeal to the Parliament of Ukraine!

The parliamentary majority bares special responsibility for their failure to act that led to the escalation of the situation, numerous injuries and killing of people. Parliament should urgently have their say. Now – at night, not on Thursday!

The Ukrainian oligarchs also share the responsibility, because they are actually the backbone of the authorities. If they do not make any real impact on the authorities to stop the violence, then they will become not only a victim of the surging war against their own people, but also will share the responsibility with the authorities. I am convinced that they urgently need to come to the Parliament to influence the deputies whom they control.

Only by ending the violent confrontation and the full reboot of all the authorities, through the early elections under the new law without restrictions on entry barriers and discriminatory property qualification, it is still possible to stop the catastrophe in Ukraine.

There are sons of Ukraine on both sides!

Take your hands off the Maidan! Take your hands off the wounded in the hospitals, who are being threatened with new arrests!

All together we have to protect the most important human right – the right to life. We have to defend the right to freedom, justice and human dignity!

P.S.The First Ombudsman of Ukraine Nina Karpachova urged the Ukrainian top businessmen, also speaking personally with Rinat Akhmetov (the Ukrainian oligarch), to influence the authorities to stop the violence.

"I have spoken with Rinat Akhmetov on the phone and he adequately reacted to the concerns that I tried to convey to him. He said that as we could see not everyone wanted peace and he had done his best, but his peacekeeping efforts unfortunately failed as of today. Nonetheless, Akhmetov assured me that he would continue to struggle for peace. And for this, as he said, the authorities and opposition have to act in a balanced way to stop the violence" - said Karpachova. (http://gordonua.com/news/maidan/Karpacheva-Zachistka-Maydana-prolog-provokacii-k-grazhdanskoy-voyne-10316.html)

Нина Карпачева : «РУКИ ПРОЧЬ ОТ МАЙДАНА!»

Интервью Радио Свобода, 18 февраля, 21:30

Сегодня, 18 февраля 2014 года, в Украине трагический вторник. Зачистка мирного Евромайдана под предлогом проведения антитеррористической операции – это полномасштабная провокация к гражданской войне в Украине.

Ответственность за это полностью лежит на власти.

Пытаюсь уже полтора часа дозвониться к Президенту Украины Виктору Януковичу. Коммутатор Администрации Президента пообещал соединить, как только телефон будет свободен.

Пользуясь случаем прямого эфира Радио свобода, обращаюсь к Гаранту прав человека и Верховному главнокомандующему: срочно дать команду остановить силовой вооруженный штурм мирного протеста на Майдане, прекратить применение водометов, светошумовых гранат, лазерного ослепления и бросание  «коктейлей Молотова» в протестующих.

Перерастание гражданского конфликта в гражданскую войну принесет многочисленные жертвы среди мирного населения Украины, но власть должна понять, что война с народом губительна и для нее самой.

Я обращаюсь к правоохранительным органам: остановитесь, прекратите братоубийственные действия, ведь это – начало войны с собственным народом, которая обречена на абсолютное поражение.

Я обращаюсь к Верховной Раде Украины!

На парламентском большинстве лежит особая ответственность за бездействие, приведшее к обострению ситуации, многочисленным ранениям и гибели людей. Парламент должен срочно сказать свое слово. Сейчас, ночью, а не в четверг!

Отдельная ответственность лежит на украинских олигархах, которые фактически являются главной опорой этой власти. Если они реально не повлияют на власть для прекращения насилия, то сами станут не только жертвой раздутой войны с собственным народом, но и будут нести ответственность вместе с властью. Убеждена, что они срочно должны прибыть в Верховную Раду, чтобы повлиять на депутатов, которых они контролируют непосредственно.

Только путем прекращения силового противостояния и полной перезагрузки всех органов власти, через досрочные выборы по новому закону без ограничений относительно проходного барьера и дискриминационного имущественного ценза, еще возможно остановить катастрофу в Украине.

По обе стороны – сыновья Украины!

Руки прочь от Майдана! Руки прочь от раненых в больницах, которым угрожают новыми арестами!

Все вместе защитим главное право человека – право на жизнь. Защитим вместе право на свободу, справедливость и человеческое достоинство!

P.S. Экс-омбудсмен Украины Нина Карпачева призвала украинских топ-бизнесменов, в том числе в личной беседе – Рината Ахметова, повлиять на власть для остановки насилия.

"У меня был телефонный разговор с Ринатом Ахметовым и ту тревогу, которую я пыталась донести до Рината Леонидовича, он воспринял адекватно. Он сказал, что, как мы видим, не все хотят мира, но он делал все, что мог, и, к сожалению, его миротворческая политика на сегодняшний момент обанкротилась. Тем не менее, Ахметов заверил меня, что будет продолжать бороться за мир. А для этого и власть, и оппозиция, по его словам, должны действовать довольно взвешенно, чтобы остановить насилие", – уточнила Карпачева.

Карпачева: Зачистка Майдана – пролог провокации к гражданской войне

Нина Карпачева
Фото: ТСН

В Украине сегодня трагический черный вторник.

Такую позицию Карпачева озвучила Gordonua.com.

"Я пыталась полтора часа дозвониться Президенту Виктору Януковичу, и коммутаторы пообещали меня соединить, как только телефон будет свободен. Но пока не соединили и, как мне стало известно, не соединили также Меркель и еще несколько европейских политиков. Понимаю, что там очень горячо, но я продолжаю ждать, что меня все-таки соединят с Януковичем", – посетовала первая уполномоченная ВР по правам человека.

Она также рассказала об общении с украинскими миллиардерами.

"У меня был телефонный разговор с Ринатом Ахметовым и ту тревогу, которую я пыталась донести до Рината Леонидовича, он воспринял адекватно. Он сказал, что, как мы видим, не все хотят мира, но он делал все, что мог, и, к сожалению, его миротворческая политика на сегодняшний момент обанкротилась. Тем не менее, Ахметов заверил меня, что будет продолжать бороться за мир. А для этого и власть, и оппозиция, по его словам, должны действовать довольно взвешенно, чтобы остановить насилие", – уточнила Карпачева.

По ее словам, сегодня в эфире "Радио Свобода" она обратилась к "олигархам, которые являются опорой этой власти, с призывом реально на нее повлиять для того, чтобы было остановлено насилие".

Олигархи просто обязаны сейчас приехать в Раду, встретиться со своими депутатами и повлиять на них, чтобы к мирной фазе пришли не в четверг (когда пройдут очередные обещанные переговоры), а немедленно. Раненым, которые сейчас находятся в больницах, прежде всего со стороны протестующих, сегодня угрожают арестами. А это очень опасно и я призываю убрать от них руки прочь! Точно так же, как руки прочь от Майдана!" – подчеркнула политик.

Она убеждена, что ВР не выполнила свою основную функцию и задачу. Отдельную вина за это экс-омбудсмен возложила на провластное большинство, которое бездействовало.

"Считаю, что переговорная площадка должна быть исключительно в парламенте. Сделать это нужно уже сегодня ночью, не теряя времени. Я обращаюсь к правоохранительным органам с призывом прекратить братоубийственные действия, потому что это начало войны с собственным народом, которая обречена на поражение", – заключила Карпачева.

The First Ombudsman of Ukraine Nina Karpachova urged the Ukrainian top businessmen, also speaking personally with Rinat Akhmetov (the Ukrainian oligarch), to influence the authorities to stop the violence.

"I have spoken with Rinat Akhmetov on the phone and he adequately reacted to the concerns that I tried to convey to him. He said that as we could see not everyone wanted peace and he had done his best, but his peacekeeping efforts unfortunately failed as of today. Nonetheless, Akhmetov assured me that he would continue to struggle for peace. And for this, as he said, the authorities and opposition have to act in a balanced way to stop the violence" - said Karpachova.

http://gordonua.com/news/maidan/Karpacheva-Zachistka-Maydana-prolog-provokacii-k-grazhdanskoy-voyne-10316.html

Экс-омбудсмен Украины Нина Карпачева призвала украинских топ-бизнесменов, в том числе в личной беседе – Рината Ахметова, повлиять на власть для остановки насилия.

"У меня был телефонный разговор с Ринатом Ахметовым и ту тревогу, которую я пыталась донести до Рината Леонидовича, он воспринял адекватно. Он сказал, что, как мы видим, не все хотят мира, но он делал все, что мог, и, к сожалению, его миротворческая политика на сегодняшний момент обанкротилась. Тем не менее, Ахметов заверил меня, что будет продолжать бороться за мир. А для этого и власть, и оппозиция, по его словам, должны действовать довольно взвешенно, чтобы остановить насилие", – уточнила Карпачева.

Volksanwaltschaft | 27.01.2014 | 11:50

Volgger bei Unterzeichnung eines Abkommens zwischen Volksanwaltschaften von Italien und Albanien in Tirana

Ziele der Zusammenarbeit sind ein Informationsaustausch über die Verwaltungssysteme und die gegenseitige Unterstützung der Bürger des jeweils anderen Landes.

Kooperation der Volksanwälte Albaniens und Italiens: (v.l.) Lucia Franchini, Igli Totozani und Burgi Volgger

Volksanwältin Burgi Volgger war dieser Tage  in ihrer Eigenschaft als Präsidentin des Europäischen Ombudsman-Instituts bei der Unterzeichnung eines Kooperationsabkommens zwischen den Volksanwaltschaften Italiens und Albaniens dabei. Das Abkommen, das vom albanischen Volksanwalt Igli Totozani und der Koordinatorin der regionalen Volksanwaltschaften Italiens Lucia Franchini in Tirana unterzeichnet wurde, sieht eine Zusammenarbeit bei der Unterstützung der Mitbürger, die sich im jeweils anderen Land aufhalten vor.

„Derzeit studieren z.B. viele Italiener an albanischen Universitäten, vor allem wegen der geringeren Lebenshaltungskosten. Das monatliche Durchschnitteinkommen beträgt in Albanien 300 Euro", berichtet Volgger. Volksanwalt Totozani spricht übrigens mehrere Sprachen fließend, auch Italienisch, da er eine Zeitlang an der Uni Trient studiert hat.

European Ombudsman

Press release no. 1/2014

Text available in EN, DE, FR

28 January 2014

TTIP: Ombudsman welcomes greater transparency in international trade negotiations

The European Ombudsman, Emily O'Reilly, has welcomed the announcement of European Parliament President Martin Schulz that future trade negotiations, and in particular the on-going negotiations with the US on the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) will be more transparent and open for stakeholder involvement. This comes after the Ombudsman's recommendation to make such negotiations more transparent and the recognition of the EU institutions themselves of past failures in such trade talks. 

Emily O'Reilly stated: "I am glad that the EU institutions did not sign overly restrictive confidentiality agreements in the TTIP negotiations as had been the case in the context of the negotiations on the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA). Apart from the legitimate need for certain documents to remain confidential in such important negotiations, the public needs to know about the state of play in trade agreements that will ultimately affect their daily lives."

Lessons learned from the ACTA negotiations

In December 2011, 28 digital civil rights associations from 18 European countries known as European Digital Rights (EDRi) complained to the Ombudsman about the European Parliament's (EP) refusal to disclose several documents concerning the ACTA negotiations. The EP explained that it was bound by a confidentiality agreement, negotiated by the Commission.

The Ombudsman accepted this explanation, but advised Parliament to ensure that the Commission and the Council do not sign confidentiality agreements in the future that could undermine Parliament's ability to deliberate openly on such issues.

In his letter to the Ombudsman, President Schulz explained that in the context of the TTIP negotiations, no confidentiality agreement has been signed with the US. The negotiators instead committed to implementing the EU's access to documents rules. Schulz wrote that the Commission took the unprecedented step of publishing important documents at the start of the TTIP process and invited stakeholders to submit their views. He promised to keep reminding the Commission that a pro-active approach is needed to keep the public informed about the state of play in all such negotiations.

The letter from President Schulz is available at: http://www.ombudsman.europa.eu/en/cases/correspondence.faces/en/53286/html.bookmark

The European Ombudsman investigates complaints about maladministration in the EU institutions and bodies. Any EU citizen, resident, or an enterprise or association in a Member State, can lodge a complaint with the Ombudsman. The Ombudsman offers a fast, flexible, and free means of solving problems with the EU administration. For more information: http://www.ombudsman.europa.eu

Appeal of the First Ombudsman of Ukraine to the Parliament of Ukraine on overcoming the socio-political crisis in Ukraine

Wednesday, 29 january 2014, 10:09

Like most of my compatriots with pain and dismay I share the concerns about the tragic escalation of the confrontation between protesters and the police forces, which led to a large number of victims, including among the journalists, and the loss of life on both sides. There is a growing real threat for transformation of the socio-political conflict in large-scale riots and the division of the society, which ultimately can result in loss of integrity of the state.

At the same time, negotiations between authorities and opposition, cancelled repressive laws from 16 January 2014, which limited the existing volume of human rights and freedoms in violation of the Article 22 of the Constitution of Ukraine, give us a chance to avoid tragic scenario of development of the situation.  

Welcoming the steps made by the Parliament of Ukraine, I see the need to call on the members of the Parliament:

1. To unconditionally release all the participants of protests from 30 November 2013 to 30 January 2014.
2. To establish a special parliamentary investigatory commission to urgently investigate all violations of human rights during the mass events, especially the right to life.
3. To ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (2006) without undue delay. To investigate every fact of disappearance of the protestors in Kyiv as well as other cities of Ukraine. 
4. To return to the Constitution of Ukraine in version of 2004, according to which it was possible to balance separation of power between its branches and transparently form the highest state executive authority – the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine.
5. To adopt a new version of the Law of Ukraine on the All-Ukrainian referendum to guarantee the possibility for Ukrainian people to express their views on crucial issues with the aim to prevent new disturbances ruining the country in the future.

I would also like to appeal to political forces, all participants of the mass events to refrain from unlawful acts and the use of force. I urge all parties of the conflict to continue the dialogue to find a peaceful resolution of all issues of concern with respect to the principle of the rule of law, Constitution and laws of Ukraine and the international obligations of Ukraine in the field of human rights and freedoms. 

Nina Karpachova

http://www.first-ombudsman.org.ua/en/zvernennya-pershogo-ombudsmana-ukrani-do-verxovno-radi-ukrani-shhodo-podolannya-susplno-poltichno-krizi-v-ukran.html

Обращение Первого Омбудсмана Украины к Верховной Раде Украины о преодолении общественно-политического кризиса в Украине

Среда, 29 января 2014, 10:09
http://www.first-ombudsman.org.ua/ru/zvernennya-pershogo-ombudsmana-ukrani-do-verxovno-radi-ukrani-shhodo-podolannya-susplno-poltichno-krizi-v-ukran.html

Как и большинство соотечественников с болью и тревогой разделяю беспокойство в связи с трагическим обострением противостояния между протестующими и правоохранительными органами, приведшим к большому количеству пострадавших, в том числе представителей СМИ, и гибели людей с обеих сторон. Становится реальной угроза перерастания общественно-политического конфликта в масштабные беспорядки, раскола общества, что в итоге может обернуться потерей целостности государства.

В то же время, переговоры между властью и оппозицией, отмена репрессивных законов,  принятых 16 января 2014 года, которые вопреки статье 22 Конституции Украины ограничивали существующий объем прав и свобод граждан, дают шанс избежать трагического сценария развития событий.

Приветствуя сделанные Верховной Радой Украины шаги, считаю необходимым призвать народных депутатов Украины:

1. Безусловно освободить всех участников протестов с 30 ноября 2013 по 30 января  2014 года.
2. Создать Временную следственную комиссию для немедленного расследования всех фактов нарушений прав человека во время массовых мероприятий, прежде всего права на жизнь.
3. Безотлагательно ратифицировать Международную конвенцию для защиты всех лиц от насильственных исчезновений 2006 года. Расследовать каждый факт исчезновения участников протеста как в г. Киеве, так и в других городах Украины.
4. Возвратиться к Конституции Украины в редакции 2004 года, дававшей возможность сбалансировать разделение власти между ее ветвями и прозрачно формировать состав высшего органа государственной исполнительной власти – Кабинета Министров Украины.
5. Принять новую редакцию Закона Украины о Всеукраинском референдуме, чтобы гарантировать возможность Украинскому народу высказывать свое мнение по судьбоносным вопросам с целью предотвращения в дальнейшем повторения разрушительных для страны потрясений.

Также обращаюсь к политическим силам, всем участникам массовых мероприятий с просьбой воздержаться в дальнейшем от противоправных действий и применения силы. Призываю все стороны конфликта продолжать диалог с целью поиска мирных путей решения всех проблемных вопросов, придерживаясь принципа верховенства права, Конституции и законов Украины, международных обязательств Украины в сфере прав и свобод человека.

It is very disappointing and alarming to hear about these regrettable developments in Ukraine undermining the values of democracy, the rule of law and human rights standards. A big concern now has been raised with regard to how the situation of political crisis in Ukraine is going to develop in light of this new legislation of a repressive nature towards fundamental civil liberties of Ukrainian people. Support is needed for the civil society and democratic forces in Ukraine, also represented by our Board member Prof. Nina Karpachova, First Ombudsman of Ukraine. As the Secretary General of the EOI I strongly condemn any possible violations of human rights and freedoms and call for respect of the rule of law in Ukraine. I also support the opinion of Prof. Karpachova that such legislation requires to be urgently revised and brought in line with the human rights commitments of Ukraine as the Council of Europe Member State.

NINA KARPACHOVA: «Repressive provisions of the Laws of Ukraine No.3879 and No.3587 of 16 January 2014 brutally violate human rights and international obligations of Ukraine»

Friday, 17 January 2014 http://www.first-ombudsman.org.ua/en/represivn-normi-zakonv-ukrani-3879-3587.html

Statement of the First Ombudsman of Ukraine

Six-weeks long waiting of the whole Ukrainian society and international community for those responsible in brutal use of force against peaceful demonstrators on 30^th November 2013 to be brought to personal responsibility according to the constitutional principle of irreversibility of the punishment were vain. Unfortunately, the authorities took the route towards legitimization of the repressive actions of the law-enforcement and judicial systems by adopting the Laws of Ukraine  No.3879 and No.3587 of 16 January 2014 with the votes of the parliament “majority”.

The way of adopting and the content of these Laws contradict to the Constitution of Ukraine, standards of human rights and freedoms, international obligations of Ukraine and case-law of the European Court of Human Rights, in particular cases “Verentsov vs. Ukraine” and “ Shmushkovych vs. Ukraine”.

The mentioned Laws violate a number of the fundamental civil rights and freedoms, guaranteed by the Constitution of Ukraine and the European Convention on Human Rights, in particular: freedom of peaceful assembly, right to the information, freedom of movement, right to the fair trial, freedom of association, as well as the principle of the rule of law.  

The fundamentally repressive provisions of these Laws contravene with the declared by the President of Ukraine Viktor Yanukovych course towards humanization of the Ukrainian legislation.    

The most dangerous is that these provisions will not facilitate solving of the undergoing social conflicts in a legal way, but on the contrary – will deepen the social confrontation and, in case they enter into force, there may be sharp worsening of the unprecedented socio-political crisis, which can end up with the loss of the independence of Ukraine.   

It should also be mentioned that some legal innovations are simply immoral and have corruption component. Thus, new provisions of the Law of Ukraine “On the Judicial System and Status of Judges”, in particular Article 134, which provides for a judge, his/her close relatives and family members up to the six row from grandfather to grandson and even a domestic partner to be entitled not only to the personal security, but also security of their property.  And judges have an additional right to having their houses equipped with security and fire alarms at the cost of the State Budget, which is at the cost of the Ukrainian citizens – taxpayers! Obviously, it will not contribute to raising public trust in the courts and does not add any guaranties for the fair and unbiased trial for the citizens.

It is absolutely clear that the Laws adopted by the Parliament of Ukraine on 16 January 2014, affecting rights and freedoms of the millions of citizens, should be a subject of wide public discussion and can be put into effect only after taking into account proposals of the civil society and expert assessment by the Venice Commission of the Council of Europe. 

 __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Ukraine: Commissioner Muižnieks to assess legislative changes

"Yesterday, several legislative amendments were adopted by the Ukrainian Parliament. The process took place with unusual haste; the amendments were tabled on 14 January and rushed through Parliament two days later. These amendments, which have reportedly already been signed into law by the President, raise serious concerns in terms of the country's obligations to respect human rights", said today Nils Muižnieks, Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights.

"I have particular concerns about the following provisions, which would most certainly impinge on several fundamental human rights, including freedom of expression, association and assembly:

• Changes to the NGO legislation affecting the activities of civil society organisations and human rights defenders in Ukraine. As I have already emphasised in my work in other Council of Europe member states, labelling NGOs as "foreign agents" based on their involvement in vaguely defined "political activities" interferes with the rights to freedom of association and freedom of expression. NGOs should be able to pursue their public watchdog function in an environment conducive to their work.
• Provisions which could exempt from criminal liability police officers who committed human rights violations during the recent demonstrations. It is a fundamental obligation of the government to ensure the accountability of those implicated in serious human rights violations. Impunity for these violations can only encourage repetition of such crimes and deny justice for the victims.
• Re-introduction of defamation into the Criminal Code. For several years, defamation only carried civil liability. Coupled with the new restrictions on the Internet, re-criminalisation of defamation will have a further chilling effect on the already alarming situation with freedom of the media in Ukraine.

I am deeply concerned by the substance of these new legislative amendments, many of which run counter to Ukraine's obligations under the European Convention on Human Rights and other international human rights standards.

In the coming days, I intend to undertake a more detailed analysis of the legislation in light of Council of Europe standards, which will then be shared with all the relevant actors and the public in general."

Secretary General Jagland alarmed by “rushed” legislation affecting fundamental rights in Ukraine

17/01/2014

Strasbourg, 17.01.2014 - Secretary General Jagland on Friday expressed his concern over the passing of several laws affecting fundamental rights in Ukraine.

“The way in which such wide-ranging legislation affecting fundamental rights and the judiciary were rushed through Parliament without a proper debate is unacceptable. Any laws adopted by Ukraine must correspond to the letter and to the spirit of its commitments taken towards the Council of Europe. I therefore call upon the Ukrainian authorities to reassess the legislation jointly with the Council of Europe to ensure Ukraine meets its commitments.

Moreover, as I have previously said, declaring NGOs which receive funding from abroad as 'Foreign Agents' is alarming”, he said.

Commissioner Füle said in an interview with Ukrainian Interfax news agency the following:

"I'm shocked. It is deeply disappointing to see such a turn from the European path of Ukraine. It is worrying to see this happening with such an important EU partner. Decisions adopted by the Verkhovna Rada are a disrespect of basic democratic principles and they not only raise concerns about the state of democracy and the future of Ukraine but also will have consequences for the partnership between the EU and Ukraine.

One of adopted laws is aimed at limiting partnership with the civil society. We have made it clear to the Ukrainian authorities that the cooperation which we build is not cooperation between us and the Ukrainian government but cooperation between the citizens of the EU and Ukraine.

We built this relationship and initialled the Association Agreement for the benefit of the Ukrainian people. And we firmly stand behind this offer. It is sad to see how the authorities turn down a chance for the Ukrainian people in such a way. I am particularly worried about the impact on the citizens of Ukraine who risk with this legislation to have their basic freedoms curtailed."

Elmar Brok (EPP, DE), chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement on behalf of the committee on the legislation passed by the Ukrainian Rada on 16 January 2014:

"I am alarmed by what happened yesterday in the Ukrainian parliament. Not only were laws adopted in a way which is clearly in violation of basic democratic rules (no prior notification that they were on the agenda, unverified voting etc.). Their purpose and effect is in clear contradiction with international commitments taken by Ukraine as member and chair of the OSCE, member of the council of Europe and as partner of the EU. These laws, which restrict fundamental freedoms of Ukrainian citizens and undermine the independence of Ukrainian lawmakers, are now before President Yanukovitch. If he signs them, he gives a clear signal to his citizens and to Ukraine's international partners that he has been misleading them and that he never really embraced the principles of democracy, rule of law and respect for fundamental freedoms and human rights. The next few hours will show us what Yanukovitch's real commitment is."

Statement by EU High Representative Catherine Ashton on developments in the Ukrainian Parliament

The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the Commission, issued the following statement today:

"I am deeply concerned by the events in Kyiv. Several pieces of legislation restricting the Ukrainian citizens' fundamental rights have been hurriedly passed in an apparent disrespect of parliamentary procedures and democratic principles.

I am particularly concerned by the changes to the judicial code which impose worrying restrictions on the rights of assembly and on the freedom of speech and media, and are contrary to Ukraine's international obligations. The changes that seem to seriously curtail the activities of civil society organisations in Ukraine and simplify procedures for revocation of mandates of Members of Parliament are equally worrying.

These regrettable developments come at a time of political crisis and do not contribute to building confidence and finding a political solution which can only happen through an inclusive dialogue with all stakeholders.

I call on the President of Ukraine to ensure that these decisions are revised and brought in line with Ukraine's international commitments."

I am concerned about the way some laws were voted in parliament today. Norms should be adopted through proper procedures. Otherwise the credibility of democratic institutions and of the legal system is at stake.

Nina Karpachova: “Igor Slisarenko – role-model of the honest Ukrainian journalism”

Saturday, 21 december 2013, 13:30

I have been deeply shocked by the news of the sudden death of the world-renowned journalist Igor Slisarenko.

We have lost a strongly committed fan of life, a man of restless heart, a highly responsible citizen, a talented journalist and a prominent television broadcaster. With his words full of wisdom he inspired millions of people to fight for human rights, human dignity and justice.

All of us who knew Igor admired his sociability, cheerfulness, inexhaustible optimism, high intelligence, broad mind and sphere of interests: political communication, public diplomacy, international relations, education ... Associate Professor, Candidate of Philology, a favourite of students and TV audience.

Igor was a humanist not only on the national scale, but also worldwide. He felt deeply concerned not only about the blatant violations of human rights and freedoms in Ukraine – he also did not remain indifferent to the fate of nations and countries that suffered from oppression, double standards, and encroachment on their sovereignty. For this reason the representatives of diplomatic missions accredited in Ukraine treated him with special reverence.

He would always stand on the side of the truth, no matter what it could cost him. For the sake of the truth and justice he would come into conflict with the authorities as well as the owners of the media he worked in.

My close cooperation with Igor started in 2007. It was during a very difficult time for him, when he was actually dismissed from the "5 Channel" for the honest journalism. I invited him to work in the Office of the Commissioner for Human Rights as an Advisor to the Ombudsman of Ukraine since our activities for protection of human rights were fully compatible with his internal values. His advice and estimates were significant and valuable for all five years of our work together. He paid special attention to the protection and fight for the professional rights and freedoms of his fellow journalists.

During the hard times of the institution of the Commissioner for human rights, when this Institution for the protection of human rights started to be ruined, and during the time of the shameful persecution of the Ombudsman staff, which was accompanied by the spread of false information in the media that humiliated human dignity, he was the first to rise to defend the truth, honour and dignity of the Ombudsman staff.

Even in the most difficult moments of his life he was able to maintain peace of the mind and a peaceful smile on his face. He had a unique talent to inspire people to find balance, harmony and hope that justice will surely prevail during their hardships.

At this sad time, I share the pain that gripped the hearts of all those who knew Igor Slisarenko, who had a chance to communicate and work with him, for whom he was an example of devotion to professional duty, a role-model of the honest journalism.

I pray to God to give strength and courage to his parents – Yuri Nikolaevich and Valentina Mikhailivna, his sister Helen, all his relatives, many of his friends, his colleagues from the newspaper "2000" – to live through the deep sorrow and bitterness of this irreparable loss. My heart and soul are with you at this mournful time for all of us.

Nina Karpachova – the First Ombudsman of Ukraine

EOI note:

The EOI informs about the Azerbaijan website-info - 04/10-13:

04/10/13

Müvəkkil Aparatının şöbə müdiri Avstriyada Avropa Ombudsmanlarının beynəlxalq konfransında Dağlıq Qarabağ məsələsini qaldırmışdır ............

Bu günlərdə Azərbaycan Respublikasının İnsan Hüquqları üzrə Müvəkkili (Ombudsman) Aparatının Hüquqi maarifləndirmə, elmi-analitik, informasiya və beynəlxalq əlaqələr şöbəsinin müdiri, Zaur Əliyev Avstriyada Avropa Ombudsmanlar İnstitutunun 15 illiyinə həsr edilmiş “Avropada Ombudsmanların müstəqilliyi” mövzusunda yubiley konfransında iştirak etmişdir.........

 Website-text:

The English Version of the Azerbajan website-text:

04/10/13

 Correction:

The EOI informs to this website-article, that it is not correct, that Mr. Yuri Hayrapetyan was removed from the conference. Mr. Yuri Hayrapetyan has not been removed from the conference. Correct is that the Secretary General in the official meeting of the Genaral Assembly has not allowed political statements. Mr. Yuri Hayrapetyan, Human Right Defender of Nagorno Karabakh  is an official "INDIVIDUAL" member of the EOI - European Ombudsman Institute since many years.

Dr. Josef Siegele, Secretary General

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

EOI - online -  25 year anniversaire events

https://vimeo.com/75374278 bei VIMEO HD Portal

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cQVJgsXwth8 bei Youtube

www.tirol.gv.at/video< am Landesportal

 

Wichtige Anlaufstelle: Tiroler Landesvolksanwaltschaft

Bürgermeisterin besuchte Dr. Josef Hauser und sein Team

15.07.2013 (ER)

Bürgermeisterin Mag.a Christine Oppitz-Plörer stattete dem Team rund um Landesvolksanwalt Dr. Josef Hauser und dem Europäischen Ombudsmann-Institut (EOI) der europäischen Vereinigung der Volksanwälte im Juli einen Besuch ab.

Das Team der Landesvolksanwaltschaft besteht aus einer Juristin, vier Juristen und zwei Sekretärinnen. Landesvolksanwalt HR Dr. Josef Hauser erklärte der Bürgermeisterin, dass im Jahr 2012 die Landesvolksanwaltschaft von rund 6.000 Personen beratungs- und beschwerdemäßig in Anspruch genommen wurde. Davon entfallen über 2.000 Kontakte auf persönliche Vorsprachen, 3.300 auf telefonische Erledigungen und der Rest auf neue schriftliche Eingaben. 73 % der Vorbringen betrafen Beratungs- und Informationsarbeit, 27 % sind auf Beschwerden zurückzuführen.

Hilfe, Beratung und Vernetzung
Nach Rechtsmaterien aufgeteilt entfielen im Jahr 2012 von den 6.000 Kontaktaufnahmen zum Beispiel 761 bezüglich „Baurecht und Raumordnung“, 929 wegen Behindertenanliegen, 1.609 in Sozialrechtsanliegen, 647 in Privatrechts und Angelegenheiten der Gerichtsbarkeit. Jede Beschwerde wird unverzüglich geprüft und bei den zuständigen Stellen auf Aufklärung oder Abhilfe hingewirkt. Gemeinsam mit der Telefonseelsorge Innsbruck wurde vom Team der Landesvolksanwaltschaft eine Suchmaschine entwickelt, die online rund 600 Einrichtungen im Sozial- und Behindertenbereich erfasst: www.werhilftwie-tirol.at.

Die Bürgermeisterin bedankte sich für die engagierte, bürgernahe und kompetente Arbeit für die Menschen in Tirol. Es sei wichtig, den Menschen bei Schicksalsschlägen und Unsicherheiten in Verbindung mit Verwaltungsverfahren zur Seite zu stehen. Das stärke auch das Vertrauen in die Verwaltung.

EOI Generalsekretär Dr. Josef Siegele erläuterte anlässlich des Besuchs, dass dem EOI mit Sitz in Innsbruck 110 institutionelle und 76 individuelle Mitglieder aus ganz Europa angehören. In den letzten Jahren hat sich das EOI vor allem bezüglich der Verbreitung der Ombudsmann-Idee in den neuen Demokratien Mittel- und Osteuropas verdient gemacht.

Vom 19. bis 21. September tagt in Innsbruck der EOI-Arbeitskongress. Anlässlich des 25-jährigen Bestandsjubiläum wird am 20. September ein landesüblicher Empfang und ein Festakt abgehalten – Generalsekretär Siegele überreichte der Bürgermeisterin zum Festakt eine Einladung.

 

_________________________________________________________________

          Telefondaten-Änderung  Ombudsstelle Stadt Zürich - ab 01.10.2012

 

          Stadt Zürich

          Ombudsstelle

          Oberdorfstrasse 10

          8001 Zürich

 

          Ombudsfrau Claudia Kaufmann:

                 Tel:        +  41- 44-412 00 30

             Fax:        +  41- 44-412 00 31

           www.stadt-zuerich.ch/ombudsstelle 

           mailto:claudia.kaufmann.omb@zuerich.ch 

 

 

__________________________________________________________________

 

KARPACHOVA contacts the Ukrainian PRESIDENT Mr. Yanukovych - APPEAL 

 

 

No. 318                                                                                                                                              5 August 2013

 

            Mr. Viktor Yanukovych

            President of Ukraine

APPEAL   

On the unconditional execution of the judgment

of the European Court of Human Rights in the case of

Yulia Tymoshenko

        Dear Viktor Fedorovych,

I have to appeal to you with a request of your personal intervention in the case, which has become the prime example of the real human rights and freedoms situation in Ukraine.

During my fourteen years of work as the Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights, I had to deal with cases of injustice, illegal deprivation of liberty, the abuse of the right to arrest, torture, miscarriage of justice, abuse of power, intolerable conditions in prisons and other numerous shortcomings of the system of justice, police, prison service, and the national human rights protection system as a whole almost on a daily basis. Due to the delay in the effective implementation of the necessary reforms in the system of law-enforcement and judiciary for many years, these painful problems have turned to be wide-scale and systematic. Ukraine has become a country of the poor and deprived people.

In fact, Ukrainians have no possibility to get fair justice in their own country: the judiciary is dependent on the executive power in the center as well as in the regions, the number of decisions that are based on the violation of the rule of law and the presumption of innocence is progressively growing, the level of professionalism of the judges has significantly reduced as well as the public trust in judges in consequence. Even after people secure a court judgment in their favor they have to fight for its implementation for years. Thus, 70% of the judgments of the domestic courts are not implemented. Therefore, there are a growing number of appeals to the European Court of Human Rights. And then Ukraine does not implement 95% of the European Court’s judgments to the full extent!

The loss of independence and impartiality by the courts has been most brutally manifested in selective criminal justice against the opposition leader Yulia Tymoshenko and members of her government. If the arrest and imprisonment of the former Prime Minister of Ukraine was "arbitrary and illegal", as found in the judgment of the European Court of Human Rights, what then can be said about the tens of thousands of imprisoned and convicted ordinary citizens of Ukraine whose rights are constantly violated! As a result of the monitoring carried out between January and May 2011 by the Commissioner for Human Rights in the Kyiv pre-trial detention center where there were nearly 4000 inmates in the presence of 2850 seats, I made a special appeal to the leadership of the State Penitentiary Service of Ukraine on elimination of brutal violations of constitutional rights of women and children to health care, decent treatment and life in the pre-trial detention centers. The situation has also been aggravated due to the fact that tens of thousands of prisoners are denied the right to use the Law of Ukraine on amnesty for the third consecutive year!

Immediately after the arrest of Yulia Tymoshenko, on 8 August 2011 I officially addressed the Pechersk District Court Judge Rodion Kireev with a proposal to revise his own decision about her arrest, which even could not be a subject for appeal, but received a negative response. Procedural violations listed in my letter to the judge Rodion Kireev were later analyzed and reflected in the judgment of the European Court of Human Rights.

The case of Yulia Tymoshenko, which I started to investigate at the position of the Commissioner for Human Rights, has combined probably all possible violations inherent in Ukrainian justice and law enforcement system. These are the nonstop daily hearings, deprivation of the opportunity to have effective legal defense, and the illegal use of arrest as a preventive measure, and interrogations in the cell of the Kyiv pre-trial detention center as a manifestation of inhumane treatment, and the "field hearings" on 7-8 December 2011 in the prison cell while she was provided health care, and 24 hour video surveillance by the hidden cameras, carried out by male officers, and illegal online publication of the video materials with the purpose to discredit her. And, finally, use of violence and beating Yulia Tymoshenko on 20.04.2012 by the officers of the penitentiary service during her forced removal from Kachanivska prison at night, the effects of which were documented by me personally.

On July 31, 2013 the judgment of the European Court of Human Rights of 30.04.2013 in the case of Yulia Tymoshenko came into force. In its decision the European Court of Human Rights held unanimously that Yulia Tymoshenko's arrest was arbitrary, and the legality of her detention was not properly evaluated by the Ukrainian justice. The Law of Ukraine "On Implementation of Judgments and Application of the Case-Law of the European Court of Human Rights" clearly obliges the state to enforce the judgment of the European Court and restore the violated rights of the individual. In case of the illegal arrest, the restoration of the rights of an illegally arrested person provides for his/her release. Unfortunately, there have been made no any appropriate steps to restore the violated rights of Yulia Tymoshenko and she remains behind bars. Furthermore, the presence of other criminal cases against her cannot be a ground for non-enforcement of the judgment of the European Court, as there are principles of the rule of law and the presumption of innocence in Ukraine.

I am strongly convinced that the unconditional execution of the European Court of Human Rights’ judgment and the release of Yulia Tymoshenko shall demonstrate clear position of the leadership of our state with regard to the irreversible movement of Ukraine towards international standards of human rights and freedoms. The illegal detention of the former Prime Minister of Ukraine casts a shadow on the long-awaited ongoing reforms and remains one of the key problems in relations with the European Union, and an insurmountable barrier for the European integration of Ukraine. The release of Yulia Tymoshenko will demonstrate to the country and the world the end of selective justice and strengthening of the rule of law in the law-enforcement practice of Ukraine.

You were the initiator of the adoption of the new Criminal Procedure Code of Ukraine, which regulates the court proceedings in a more democratic and humane way. This very fact gives basis for release of Yulia Tymoshenko and restoration of her constitutional right to liberty and fair trial in accordance with the provisions of the effective Criminal Procedure Code and the Convention on the Protection of Fundamental Human Rights and Freedoms.

On the eve of the Vilnius summit, where Ukraine has a chance to sign the Association Agreement with the European Union, I believe that the Ukrainian government can solve this problem and prove to the international partners that it fully complies with the undertaken obligations.

I am sure that you as the President of the Ukrainian State have all the necessary powers to address this vital issue for our country. Therefore, I appeal to you, dear Viktor Fedorovich, as the Guarantor of human rights and freedoms in Ukraine, and, eventually, as a wise man with the following request: under the Constitution of Ukraine, the Criminal Procedure Code of Ukraine and the Convention for the Protection of Fundamental Human Rights and Freedoms, and the United Nations International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights to show good political will and take all possible measures, including clemency, for immediate execution of the judgment of the European Court of Human Rights and restoration of the violated rights of Yulia Tymoshenko, her release from serving the sentence and giving her possibilities to receive necessary treatment abroad.

With best regards,

First Ombudsman of Ukraine,
Board member of the European Ombudsman Institute     Nina Karpachova

 

======================================================================

 

Karpachova: Yanukovich has all grounds to pardon Yulia Tymoshenko

30 May, 23:41, Natalka Komarnitska, TVi http://tvi.ua/index.php?route=information/printable&news_id=19303&router=information/news

 

 

Even new criminal cases brought against the opposition leader cannot be an obstacle for clemency as there is a presumption of innocence in Ukraine.

The President Yanukovich has all necessary grounds for pardoning Yulia Tymoshenko.

Such opinion was expressed by the former Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights Nina Karpachova.

Even new criminal cases brought against the opposition leader cannot be an obstacle for clemency as there is a presumption of innocence in Ukraine. If Tymoshenko will not be released soon, there is a risk for Ukraine to be excluded from the Council of Europe.

"Mrs. Tymoshenko is a top of the iceberg. There are thousands of prisoners in Ukraine who faced the same arbitrary persecutions from the law-enforcement and the judiciary. And it means that Ukraine, Ukrainian judiciary have to review these cases” – said the First Ombudsman of Ukraine. 

 

Karpachova: Pardoning of Tymoshenko is in the hands of Yanukovich

30.05.2013 13:44, Liga, http://news.liga.net/news/politics/859743-karpacheva_pomilovanie_timoshenko_tolko_v_rukakh_yanukovicha.htm

 

The destiny of “thousands of prisoners who suffered the same persecutions” depends on the response of the authorities to the judgment of the European Court of Human Rights on Tymoshenko.

President Viktor Yanukovich should better not wait until the final judgement of the European Court of Human Rights on Yulia Tymoshenko and apply amnesty or clemency to her. It was said by the First Ombudsman Nina Karpachova today at the press-conference in Liga Information Agency.

According to Karpachova, judgments of the ECoHR are not recommendations, but have a binding nature; however their enforcement is still a problem for Ukraine: «Almost 70% of the decisions of the national courts are not enforced in Ukraine. And 95% of the ECoHR judgments are not enforced to the full extend – because paying compensation is not about fully enforcing judgments. The numbers are critical! And it is after 20 years of the efforts to reform the judiciary!».

«I believe that Ukraine should not wait. Please refer to this press-conference as my personal appeal to the authorities. Today the authorities have the ball on their side. They can do almost everything … Also in cases of Lutsenko and Tymoshenko», - said Karpachova and added that there are all necessary grounds for applying clemency procedure in case of Tymoshenko.

«Clemency can be applied to any person. It is exclusively the will of the President, who is a guarantor of observance of human rights and freedoms... There are no problems. Moreover, we already have a positive clemency precedent in the case of Lutsenko. In my opinion, there are no obstacles for clemency in her case today. It is one of the possible ways. It can also be an amnesty , which is also a possible option in sight», - noted the First Ombudsman.

«I told to Viktor Yanukovich that powerful have to be merciful when I met with him in April last year. There is no other way… A person who has undergone sufferings has to feel it… I can say that Lutsenko and Tymoshenko are different people today. I met with Lutsenko in the cell, which used to be a cell for convicts on a death row, for seven times. And not only with him, but also with Korneichuk, Volga and others. I want to tell you that people who have been through these challenges, if they have a will, they become even stronger», - she added.

Karpachova stated that the case of Tymoshenko is a precedent for thousands of prisoners, who faced the same persecutions from the law-enforcement and the judiciary. And the response of the Ukrainian system of justice to the judgment of the ECoHR on Tymoshenko will determine the possibility for review of all their convictions and sentences.

 

Karpachova: Ukraine ranks fourth in Europe on number of arrests

30.05.2013 13:03, Liga, http://news.liga.net/news/politics/859690-karpacheva_ukraina_zanimaet_chetvertoe_mesto_v_evrope_po_arestam.htm

 

According to Karpachova, there are 320 prisoners for 100 thousand citizens in Ukraine.

Ukrainian courts abuse the right to arrest and taking people into custody, and it is not only about Yulia Tymoshenko and Yurii Lutsenko, but thousands of citizens. It was said by the First Ombudsman Nina Karpachova today at the press-conference in Liga Information Agency.

"Courts have been permanently abusing the so called right to arrest. Ukraine has been one of the countries on the European continent, where we have arrests on a mass scale.”, - said Karpachova.

According to her, this situation has started to change slightly after the new Criminal Procedure Code came into force. "With all its shortcomings, which have been reported by human rights activists, it is a step forward anyway. And today we can say that approximately 12-13 thousand of prisoners were released under the provisions of the new Criminal Procedure Code", - she added.

Karpachova stated that the number of complaints of the Ukrainian citizens to the European Court of Human Rights about arrests and custody doubled in 2010. Ukrainian courts, she believes, insufficiently use the European Convention on Human Rights and case-law of the European Court of Human Rights when taking such decisions, whereas they are a part of the Ukrainian legislation. "The European court has made judgments in similar cases about arrests – Shalimov v. Ukraine, Moskalenko v. Ukraine and Buriaga v. Ukraine… But national courts lack motivation for taking accused people under arrest", - noted the First Ombudsman.

Commenting on the judgment of the ECoHR on illegal arrest of Tymoshenko, Karpachova recalled that she personally appealed to the judge of the Pechersk district court of Kyiv Rodion Kireev with suggestion to revise his decision, but he refused. "In his hands Kireev had not only the destiny of Tymoshenko, but also the image of Ukraine in terms of respect for the European convention on human rights and case-law of the European court of human rights. To my big regret, Mr. Kireev didn’t listen to my appeal. I received a negative response, but after some time all those issues that I raised before Kireev in my appeal were studied by the ECoHR and put into the basis of its judgment", - she summed up.

 

Ex-Ombudsman Karpachova hopes to hear “good news” about Tymoshenko this year

14:28 30.05.2013, Interfax-Ukraine, http://interfax.com.ua/news/political/154966.html

The First Ombudsman of Ukraine Nina Karpachova is convinced that the judgment of the European Court of Human Rights (ECoHR) with regard to former Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko has to be fully implemented and she can be pardoned.

"I would like to say that the judgment has to be executed, when it comes into force, and it must be executed", - said Nina Karpachova at the press-conference on Thursday.

Nina Karpachova noted: “There are all necessary grounds in the first criminal case, on gas affairs, to apply the same procedure, at least one of the variants of the procedure, which was applied with regard to former Interior Minister Yurii Lutsenko”.

"Clemency can be applied to any person. It is exclusively the right of the President", - said Nina Karpachova in response to the question if there is a possibility for Yulia Tymoshenko to be pardoned.

According to her there are “no obstacles” in this issue.

"There has been created a positive precedent by the case of Yurii Lutsenko to be able to refer to the old provision, which used to be in force before and entitled not only the convicted, but also his/her relatives, non-governmental and religious organizations  to appeal to President for clemency ", - noted ex-Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights.

She added that one of the options can be an amnesty applied to Yulia Tymoshenko.

"I hope that we will have good news this year. I very much look forward to hear such news this year", - said Nina Karpachova and noted that in other criminal cases initiated against Yulia Tymoshenko (cases of Kioto Protocol, ambulance cars and the case of Scherban), the ex-Premier has the status of a suspect and defendant and these cases “cannot prevent the release of Yulia Tymoshenko”.

 

    Yanukovich can pardon Tymoshenko

    14:36  30 May 2013 The Telegraph http://telegraf.com.ua/ukraina/politika/578150-yanukovich-mozhet-pomilovat-timoshenko.html

    Nina Karpachova believes that the President of Ukraine Viktor Yanukovich has all necessary grounds to pardon the former Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko.

According to the reporter of UNIAN, it was said by her during a press-conference in Kyiv.

According to Karpachova, clemency can be applied to any person when there is a sentence in the case. "There are all grounds to apply the same procedure as in the case of Lutsenko in her first criminal case. There are no obstacles for applying this procedure", - said, in particular, Karpachova.

At the same time, in her opinion, a number of other criminal cases against Tymoshenko trialed by courts cannot be an obstacle for her clemency. “There is nothing to prevent her release, if we acknowledge the presumption of innocence ”,- explained Karpachova.

Speaking about execution of the judgment of the European Court of Human Rights in case of Tymoshenko, Karpachova noted that paying compensation “is insufficient for execution of a judgment”. At the same time she urged the authorities to execute the ECoHR judgment without delay.

I very much look forward to good news, - concluded Karpachova.

In this context, ex-Parliamentary Commissioner for Human Rights also said that there is a risk that the Council of Europe may suspend the membership of Ukraine because of the unsatisfactory execution of a number of ECoHR judgments.

 

 

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  European Ombudsman, P. Nikiforos Diamandouros

 

Ombudsman dealt with more than 30 000 complaints in the past ten years

The European Ombudsman, P. Nikiforos Diamandouros, dealt with more than 30 000 complaints and opened almost 3 500 investigations into alleged maladministration in the EU administration during his ten years in office. In 2012 alone, he received 2 442 complaints (2510 in 2011) and opened a record number of 465 inquiries (396 in 2011). Most of the 2012 inquiries were about lack of transparency (21.5%), including refusal to release documents or information. Other cases concerned problems with the execution of EU contracts or calls for tender, conflicts of interest, unfairness, delays, and discrimination.

At the presentation of his Annual Report 2012 in Brussels, Mr Diamandouros said: "In the past ten years, the EU administration has become a lot more transparent, citizen-friendly, and service-minded. The independent and impartial work of the Ombudsman has hopefully contributed to this notable progress in the administrative culture of the EU civil service. As I never tire of saying, however, there is always room for improvement, especially when it comes to enhancing the capacity of the EU institutions and bodies to be proactive in promoting a culture of service towards citizens."

In 2012, the Ombudsman received the greatest number of complaints from Spain (340), Germany (273), Poland (235), and Belgium (182). After analysis, almost 1 500 complaints were referred to national or regional ombudsmen in the Member States, to the European Parliament's Petitions Committee, the European Commission, and to other problem-solving mechanisms, such as SOLVIT and Your Europe Advice.

Most of the investigations opened by the European Ombudsman were based on complaints from Belgium (103), Italy (42), Spain (39), and Germany (39). They concerned the European Commission (53%), followed by the European Personnel Selection Office (17%), the EU Agencies taken together (13%), and the European Parliament (5%).

In 80 cases (21%), the institutions concerned agreed to a friendly solution proposal or settled the matter. The Ombudsman found maladministration in 56 cases (47 in 2011) and made critical remarks in 47 cases (35 in 2011).

The Ombudsman's Overview 2012 (in 24 languages) and the full Annual Report (currently available in English, with 23 other language versions to follow in July) are available at: http://www.ombudsman.europa.eu/activities/annualreports.faces

The European Ombudsman investigates complaints about maladministration in the EU institutions and bodies. Any EU citizen, resident, or an enterprise or association in a Member State, can lodge a complaint with the Ombudsman. The Ombudsman offers a fast, flexible, and free means of solving problems with the EU administration. For more information: http://www.ombudsman.europa.eu

 

 

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Уральская столица впечатлила европейских уполномоченных по правам человека

19 апреля 2013, 00:44

Члены правления Европейского института омбудсмена (слева направо) Нина Карпачёва, Татьяна Мерзлякова и генсек правления ЕИО Йозеф Зигеле понимают друг друга и без переводчика. Фото Алексея Кунилова.

 

 

Вчера в Екатеринбурге прошло заседание правления Европейского института омбудсмена. А перед этим гостям устроили экскурсию по городу.

В Исторический зал резиденции губернатора, где проходило заседание, правозащитники приехали полные впечатлений.

—Не ожидала, что Екатеринбург такой красивый и динамичный город, — поделилась с журналистами председатель Европейского института омбудсмена Бурги Волжер. — Теперь я и мои коллеги — поклонники Екатеринбурга.

Чувства гостей понять можно. Ведь никто из них ранее здесь не бывал, заседание правления проводится на Урале впервые. Выяснилось, что некоторые из приехавших правозащитников не знали, что сюда можно добраться самолётом любой из европейских авиакомпаний.

Кстати, Уполномоченный по правам человека в Свердловской области Татьяна Мерзлякова — единственный из региональных уполномоченных, представляющих Россию в правлении Европейского института омбудсмена. Её ежегодный доклад о правозащитной деятельности переведён на английский язык и рекомендован европейскими коллегами как пример работы уполномоченных.

 

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Nina Karpachova (Ukraine)

First Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights

Member of the Board of the European Ombudsman Institute

Professor of Law

 

SPEECH AT THE 5^TH  BEIJING FORUM  ON HUMAN RIGHTS

“FREE ACCESS TO THE INTERNET: A HUMAN RIGHT OR A THREAT TO HUMAN RIGHTS”

 KEY POINTS

A third of the global population exercises the individual right to “seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers”enshrined in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by accessing the World Wide Web – the Internet. The vast potential of the Internet, its freedom and openness, speed and transparency (availability of full, sufficient and reliable information and open access to it) enhance the human rights to be present in the information space. Online (real time) communications bring people closer to each other and enable to break informational frontiers and join efforts to protect their rights and freedoms.

 

Today one in three Internet users compares the right to free Internet access with the need for fresh air, water and food. Any restriction of the access to the world informational network is taken as painfully as deprivation of the voting right or oppression of the freedom of speech. The United Nations estimated however that two thirds of the global population have no access to the Internet and are isolated from the opportunity to receive information, and thus they cannot “fully participate in public life”.

 

This was particularly the subject matter of the report by Frank La Rue, UN Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, at the 17^th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council on 3 June 2011. The statement stressed the need to recognize free Internet access as a basic human right similar to the right to life, freedom of belief, free travel, etc. The discussion of the report specially focused on the problem of restriction of the freedom of expression in the Internet. On this issue the UN session made a proposal that restriction of the Internet access is acceptable only if it meets international standards, is fixed in laws and is needed to protect interests recognized in the international law. These proposals made in 2011 were in the spotlight of the global politics and found their way into international documents, particularly in the Joint Message by UN Secretary General, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and UNESCO Director General to all countries and nations. It formulated the strategic objective of the UN: “to ensure that the Internet becomes a truly global public resource, to which all have access and where all voices are heard”.The message underlines “the importance of quality content and action to defend the integrity and safety of online reporters.”

G8 Summit took place on 27 May 2011 and approved a Deauville Declaration “Renewed Commitment for Freedom and Democracy”, which called the Internet a tool to promote human rights and democracy globally. The Declaration identified key principles of existence of the World Wide Web: “freedom and openness of the Internet, transparency, respect for privacy and intellectual property, multi-stakeholder partnership, cyber-security and combat against cyber-crime.”

 

On 1 June 2011 the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Opinion and Expression, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe Representative on Freedom of the Media, the Organization of American States Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression and the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information signed a Joint Declaration on Freedom of Expression and the Internet. The document says, “ensuring the freedom of expression imposes a positive obligation on the states to facilitate universal access to the Internet and must be a priority for every state. There should be no discrimination in the treatment of Internet data and traffic. Limiting access to the world informational network is a violation of the human rights.”

 

The number of Internet users in my country is rapidly growing as modern information and communications technologies develop. Gemius researches show that with an annual 15% increase in users, Ukraine outperforms such Central and Eastern European nations as Belarus (9% increase of Internet users), Poland (7%), Latvia and the Czech Republic (6%), Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania and Croatia (5%). Today 33% of adults in Ukraine use the Internet (see chart 4.4.1).

 

In Finland and Estonia however, 96% of citizens have free Internet access. Compared with these European nations Ukraine belongs to poor performers in terms of “integration of the world computer network to the life of Ukrainians”.The ombudsman believes that the poverty of population in Ukraine is the main reason.

As Internet becomes increasingly popular as the primary source of information, it takes the lead among electronic and print media. Today Internet can be justly called the main source of information for the Ukrainian youth. The research “Transformation of Values Orientation of Ukrainian Youth Over the Years of Independence” carried out by Yaremenko Institute shows that in 2011, for the first time ever, Internet was more popular with young people aged 18-35 than TV and other media. Almost 90% of students and 78% of school pupils in Ukraine said they used the Internet. In addition, children see it as a popular source of games.

 

However, I am strongly concerned about the challenges of the modern web-space, firstly, to the rights of children, human honor and dignity. A person, especially a child, remains unprotected in the modern global network and can be a victim of criminals, swindlers, preachers of hate, pedophiles, vandals, terrorists, dishonorable journalists, spin doctors that specialize in black PR, influence of advertising on subconsciousness and dissemination of porn videos. Protecting honesty and dignity defamed by indecent online media is not at all easy today and sometimes even impossible because of the lack of clear protection mechanisms.

 

Another reason for my concern is the fact that the Internet community has a low media culture resembling rather a so-called vulgar fence graffiti culture based on obscene words, illiteracy and disrespect to opponents. Especially this is the case with wrangling in chats and forums between advocates of different political parties or nationalities. Forums can also contain propaganda of interethnic hostility and obscene expressions regarding citizens of other countries. Xenophobia, coarse language and rudeness are going strong on the web.

Banners advertising alcohol and tobacco are regular decorations on Ukrainian websites. Big money is spent to produce them as their publication in the Internet yields big profits.

 

Not only do specialist commercial websites advertise drugs, psychotropic substances and videos of sexual abuse of children. You can find these products on a regular Referaty (Abstracts), Biblioteka Referativ (Library of Abstracts) and other sources of information most often visited by children. Kyivstar researches show that 17% of Internet users aged under 18 saw invitations to porn websites and 14% of them visited them.

 

I believe that protecting children in the Internet is an urgent need today that can be addressed only if the government applies a comprehensive approach to manage the Internet. Examples of national policies for creating a safe environment on the web include practices of France, England and Canada that establish legal responsibilities; practices of Italy where the Association of Safe Internet Providers has a wide scope of operations; and practices of Russia, where the Safe Internet program has been in place on the national level with different versions for governmental institutions and home Internet.

 

I see as fair the position of the United Nations that harmonization of the free access principles and Internet safety standards should be addressed not only by laws of one country but also cemented at an international level. I would like to underline that “Internet governance” by governmental authorities should comply with Internet freedom, openness and transparency principles. The UN Working Group on Internet Governance has defined this objective as follows: “the development and application by Governments, the private sector and civil society, in their respective roles, of shared principles, norms, rules, decision-making procedures, and programs that shape the evolution and use of the Internet”.  

 

 

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Regionale Volksanwälte immer wichtiger

Die Bedeutung der regionalen Volksanwälte in der EU nimmt in den Zeiten der Wirtschaftskrise zu. Das hat das achte Seminar der regionalen Volksanwälte der Europäischen Union in Brüssel ergeben. Auch Südtirols Volksanwältin Burgi Volgger hat am Seminar teilgenommen.

Insgesamt 111 Volksanwälte aus allen Teilen der EU sind der Einladung des Europäischen Volksanwaltes Nikiforos Diamandouros gefolgt und haben in der vergangenen Woche im Flämischen Parlament in Brüssel über die Aufgabe der regionalen Volksanwälte in der EU diskutiert. Im Hauptvortrag betonte der Vizepräsident des Europäischen Parlamentes, Rainer Wieland, die wachsende Bedeutung der regionalen Volksanwälte. Die Bürgerinnen und Bürger verlieren immer mehr das Vertrauen in die Politik und in die Verwaltung, deshalb fallen den regionalen Volksanwälten wichtige Aufgaben zu. „Sie müssen in ihrer Rolle als Vermittler die Rechte der Bürgerinnen und Bürger verteidigen. Durch schnelle und ernsthafte Beschwerdeprüfungen können sie aber auch das Vertrauen der Bürger in die Verwaltung wieder herstellen“, erklärt Südtirols Volksanwältin Burgi Volgger.

Das Europäisches Jahr der Bürgerinnen und Bürger

Die neuen Medien bezeichnete der Vizepräsident des Europäischen Parlamentes durchaus als Chance, wies aber auch auf die Gefahr hin, dass dadurch nur die „lauten“, also die sich äußernden Bürger verstärkt wahrgenommen werden. Aufgabe der regionalen Volksanwälte sei es, vor allem den „leisen“ Bürgern beizustehen. Der Europäische Volksanwalt Nikiforos Diamandouros wies anschließend darauf hin, dass das Jahr 2013 das Europäische Jahr der Bürgerinnen und Bürger wird. „Je besser die Frauen und Männer in Europa ihre Rechte als EU-Bürgerinnen und -Bürger verstehen, desto intensiver wird das demokratische Leben in Europa. Die regionalen Volksanwälte haben deshalb die Aufgabe die Bürgerinnen und Bürger über ihre Rechte und Möglichkeiten im Rahmen der EU-Bürgerschaft aufzuklären“, so der EU-Volksanwalt. Insbesondere über ihr Recht auf freie Wahl des Arbeitsplatzes und des Aufenthaltsortes innerhalb der EU soll hingewiesen werden.

Bürgerfreundliche Arbeitsweise

Die Arbeitsweise der regionalen Volksanwälte soll in Zukunft noch bürgerfreundlicher gestaltet werden. Im nächsten Jahr sollen Umfragen über die Zufriedenheit der Beschwerdeführer organisiert werden. Ebenso soll ein gemeinsames Beschwerdesystem für die gesamte regionale Verwaltung in der EU eingeführt werden. Derzeit wird ein gemeinsames Modellformular für alle Beschwerden erarbeitet.

Das Seminar der regionalen Volksanwälte wird alle zwei Jahre in einer anderen europäischen Stadt abgehalten.

 

(Foto von links: Secretary Genral Josef Siegele, European Ombudsman
Nikiforos Diamandouros , EOI-President Burgi Volgger)

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Online petitions successfully introduced in Germany

EOI President, Burgi Volgger, and the Regional Ombudsman for Vorarlberg, Gabriele Strele, were present at the traditional meeting of the Petitions Committees of the Federal Republic of Germany on 24 September. To this meeting were also invited Ombudspersons of other German-speaking areas such as Austria and South-Tyrol. The most important theme of this meeting was online petition. „By uncomplicated access to the Petitions Committees via internet closeness to the citizens arises. „By that Citizens´ Commissioners are able to mediate even more directly between the citizens and the state“, Volgger is convinced. Especially persons aged 20 - 29 frequently make use of the possibility of online petition. „As a result a new form of understanding of democracy came into being, as real discussion platforms as to petitions have developed on the internet“, explains Volgger. Such an implementation Volgger would also welcome in South Tyrol.

German lessons for officials

Furthermore, the drafting unit of the Society for the German Language demanded a more simple language concerning the correspondence with the citizens at the German Bundestag. All of the draft laws would require a linguistic reconsideration. The official language in the daily dealing with the citizens should be considerably simplified, too. „The language should be clearly understandable. Spezialised terminology should - if possible - be avoided, and absolutely necessary specialist terms have to be explained “, states Volgger. To implement these aims in a concrete manner, the Society now offers special language courses for officials. „A good initiative, which I would welcome in South Tyrol, too“, says Ombudsman Burgi Volgger.

Online-Petitionen in Deutschland erfolgreich eingeführt

EOI Präsidentin, Burgi Volgger, und die Vorarlberger Volksanwältin, Gabriele Strele, haben am 24. September der traditionellen Tagung der Petitionsausschüsse der Bundesrepublik Deutschland beigewohnt. Zur Tagung waren auch die Volksanwälte anderer deutschsprachiger Gebiete wie Österreich und Südtirol eingeladen. Das wichtigste Thema dieser Tagung war die Online-Petition. „Durch den unkomplizierten Zugang zu den Petitionsausschüssen mittels Internet entsteht Bürgernähe. So können die Bürgerbeauftragten noch unmittelbarer zwischen Bürgern und dem Staat vermitteln“, ist Volgger überzeugt. Speziell bei den 20 bis 29-Jährigen wird die Möglichkeit der Online-Petition häufig genutzt. „Dadurch ist eine neue Form von Demokratieverständnis entstanden, denn im Internet haben sich regelrechte Diskussionsforen zu den einzelnen Petitionen entwickelt“, erklärt Volgger. Eine solche Umsetzung würde die Volksanwältin auch in Südtirol begrüßen.

Deutschkurse für Beamte

Außerdem hat der Redaktionsstab der Gesellschaft für deutsche Sprache beim Deutschen Bundestag eine einfachere Sprache im Schriftverkehr mit den Bürgern eingefordert. Die Gesetzesentwürfe bedürften allesamt einer sprachlichen Überprüfung. Auch sollte die Amtssprache im täglichen Verkehr mit den Bürgern wesentlich vereinfacht werden. „Die Sprache sollte klar verständlich sein. Auf Fachworte sollte man möglichst verzichten und absolut notwendige Fachwörter müssen erklärt werden“, bringt Volgger vor. Zur konkreten Umsetzung ihrer Ziele bietet die Gesellschaft jetzt eigene Sprachkurse für Beamte an. „Eine gute Initiative, die ich auch in Südtirol willkommen heißen würde“, sagt Volksanwältin Burgi Volgger.

 

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„Human Rights Commissioners of Russia seeking contact with Europe“

At the meeting of the European Ombudsman Institute (EOI) at St. Petersburg a discussion about the situation of the Human Rights Commissioners in the Russian Federation took place. While in Russia the situation seems to improve, in Ukraine alarming states of affairs continue to exist, informs the Ombudsman for South Tyrol, Burgi Volgger. Volgger is the President of the European Ombudsman-Institute and was guest at St. Petersburg last week.

At the EOI board meeting at St. Petersburg the present European Ombudspersons (members of the EOI board) were dealing mainly with the situation in the Russian Federation. „To establish Ombuds-Institutions in all parts of the Russian Federation has meanwhile successfully been achieved“, states Volgger satisfied. „But partly only one Ombudsperson is responsible for a huge area, therefore these Ombudspersons are overwhelmed with work“. Volgger, therefore, pleads for the local implementation of Ombuds-Institutions, als already has occured in big cities. „St. Petersburg has now a new Ombudsman with Alexander Shishlov. This is a good start“, resumes Volgger.

Situation in Ukraine tense

The situation in Ukraine, on the other hand, is worrying. The former Citizens Commissioner for Ukraine, Nina Karpachova, informed about pressures in her country. „Karpachova reported on the ill-treatment of Yulia Tymoshenko at a press conference last year. With regard to the future of the nation Karpachova paints a gloomy picture, as the coming elections won´t change anything of the present situation“, informs Volgger.

 

„Volksanwälte Russlands suchen Kontakt mit Europa“

Auf der Tagung des Europäischen Ombudsman-Institutes (EOI) in St. Petersburg wurde über die Lage der Volksanwälte in der Russischen Föderation diskutiert. Während die Situation in Russland sich zu bessern scheint, herrschen in der Ukraine weiterhin besorgniserregende Zustände, berichtet Südtirols Volksanwältin Burgi Volgger. Volgger ist die Präsidentin des Europäischen Ombudsman-Instituts und war in der vergangenen Woche in St. Petersburg zu Gast.

Bei der Vorstandssitzung des EOI in St. Petersburg haben sich die anwesenden europäischen Volksanwälte (Mitglieder des EOI-Vorstandes) vor allem mit der Situation in der Russischen Föderation beschäftigt. „Mittlerweile ist es gelungen in allen Teilen der Russischen Föderation Ombuds-Institutionen einzurichten“, ist Volgger zufrieden. „Teilweise gibt es aber für sehr große Gebiete nur einen Bürgerbeauftragten, deshalb sind diese Volksanwälte überlastet.“ Volgger hat sich deshalb für die lokale Umsetzung von Ombuds-Institutionen ausgesprochen, wie es bereits in den Großstädten geschehen ist. „St. Petersburg hat mit Alexander Shishlov jetzt einen neuen Ombudsman bekommen. "Das ist ein guter Anfang", resümiert Volgger.

Lage in der Ukraine angespannt

Besorgniserregend ist hingegen die Situation in der Ukraine. Die ehemalige Bürgerbeauftragte der Ukraine, Nina Karpachova, hat über die Auswüchse in ihrem Land berichtet. „Karpachova hat im vergangenen Jahr auf einer Pressekonferenz über die Misshandlungen von Julia Timoschenko berichtet. Für die Zukunft des Staates zeichnet Karpachova ein düsteres Bild, weil die nächsten Wahlen nichts an der derzeitigen Situation ändern werden“, berichtet Volgger.

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Zu einem gemeinsamen, speziellen Erfahrungsaustausch im Rahmen des Europaforums Alpach kam es seitens Dr. Auma Obama auch mit dem Generalsekretär des Europäischen Ombudsman-Insituts, Dr. Josef Siegele. Dabei ging es vor allem im Bereich des transnationalen Ombudswesens um Möglichkeiten zur Nutzung internationaler Synergien in diesem Bereich, sowie um die Stärkung von bestehenden Ombudseinrichtungen in Nordafrika, Südeuropa und um mögliche Modelle regionaler Ombudsleute vor Ort bzw. mögliche Hilfestellungen und Projektansätze durch das EOI. Die diesbezüglichen Gespräche werden in den nächsten Monaten gemeinsam vertieft werden.


Josef Siegele Generalsekretär EOI, Helmut Lutz Geschäftsführer MCI Tirol, Auma Obama

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Deutsche Landtagsdelegationen zu Gedankenaustausch bei LTP van Staa und

dem Europäischen Ombudsmann Institut (EOI)

 

Gleich zwei hochrangige Delegationen aus Deutschland statteten gestern im Rahmen von Studienreisen Landtagspräsident Herwig van Staa im Innsbrucker Landhaus einen Besuch ab.

Nach einem ersten Meinungs- und Erfahrungsaustausch im Jahr 2004 nützte der Petitionsausschuss des Landtages von Rheinland-Pfalz unter der Leitung von Landtagsvizepräsidenten Bernhard Braun zum zweiten Mal die Gelegenheit, um sich über die verschiedenen Aufgabenbereiche und die Praxisarbeit der Landesvolksanwaltschaft, des Petitionsausschusses im Tiroler Landtag und des Europäischen Ombudsmanninstitutes (EOI)  zu informieren. „Ziel unseres Besuches ist es, neben einem allgemeinen Informationsupdate hinsichtlich der hier in Tirol geleisteten Arbeit gemeinsam mit unseren Tiroler Kolleginnen und Kollegen weiter intensiv an der Schaffung einheitlicher Qualitätsstandards im europäischen Ombudsmannbereich zu arbeiten“, so der Vorsitzende des rheinland-pfälzischen Petitionsausschusses Peter Dröscher. Landtagspräsident Herwig van Staa betonte, dass es in einem modernen Europa zum rechtsstaatlichen Auftrag und zur Stärkung der Demokratie gehöre, den Bürgerinnen und Bürgern eine unabhängige Stelle zur Verfügung zu stellen, die sie bei Konflikten mit der Verwaltung unterstützt und Verwaltungshandlungen überprüft. Der Tiroler Landtag habe bereits im Jahr 1989 den Volksanwalt als Organ des Landtages geschaffen, der in den verschiedenen Verwaltungsbereichen jedermann auf Verlangen Rat erteile und Beschwerden entgegennehme. „Neben Vorarlberg ist Tirol damit das einzige von insgesamt neun österreichischen Bundesländern, das – neben der Volksanwaltschaft des Bundes – eine eigene Landesvolksanwaltschaft eingerichtet hat“, informierte van Staa die anwesenden Delegationsmitglieder.

 

 

Bild: 1).

1., 4.v.l. Josef Siegele EOI-Generalsekretär, EOI-Präsidentin Burgi Volgger, Landesvolksanwalt Josef Hauser, Vorsitzender Petitionsausschuss Rheinland-Pfalz Dröscher, Bürgerbeauftragter Rheinland-Pfalz Dieter Burgard, , Vizepräsident Bernhard Braun

 

 

Bild: 2).

1., 4.v.l. Josef Siegele EOI-Generalsekretär, Vorsitzender Petitionsausschuss Rheinland-Pfalz Dröscher, Bürgerbeauftragter Rheinland-Pfalz Dieter Burgard, LTP van Staa, Vizepräsident Bernhard Braun

Foto: Landesvolksanwalt

 

 

 

11/6/2012

Università di Padova: sottoscritto il Memorandum of Understanding tra l'Istituto Europeo dell'Ombudsman e l’Istituto Italiano dell'Ombudsman

© Centro diritti umani - Università di Padova

 

Lunedì 11 giugno 2012, alle ore 12.00, presso il Centro Diritti Umani dell'Università di Padova, Burgi Volgger e Josef Siegele, rispettivamente Presidente e Segretario generale dell'Istituto Europeo dell'Ombudsman, e Marco Mascia Direttore del Centro Diritti Umani hanno firmato il Memorandum of Understanding tra l'Istituto Europeo dell'Ombudsman (EOI) e l’Istituto Italiano dell'Ombudsman, creato all’interno del Centro.

Erano presenti anche Lucia Franchini, Difensore civico della Regione Toscana, Vittorio Gasparrini, membro del Comitato esecutivo dell'EOI e Coordinatore dell’Istituto Italiano dell’Ombudsman, Antonio Papisca, Cattedra UNESCO Diritti umani, democrazia e pace, Paolo De Stefani, Direttore nazionale del Programma di Master europeo in diritti umani e democratizzazione, Luca Gazzola e Sofia Omar Osman, Archivio Pace Diritti Umani.

Obiettivo del Memorandum è quello di sviluppare programmi e progetti che contribuiscano, nel modo più ampio possibile, alla protezione e promozione dei diritti umani, della cultura della pace nonché allo sviluppo dell'istituto della Difesa civica.

Il Memorandum prevede l'elaborazione di un programma annuale delle attività, il quale comprenderà, progetti di ricerca e di formazione, seminari, eventi culturali, attività di consulenza e assistenza agli uffici del Difensori civici e ad istituzioni governative, intergovernative e non-governative, programmi di scambio tra il personale delle rispettive istituzioni, il supporto per la pubblicazione di volumi e campagne informative, l'istituzione di una rete delle università impegnate nella ricerca e nell’insegnamento nel campo della difesa civica.

Tra le prime attività comuni, si segnalano: la pubblicazione di un volume di analisi comparata dell’esperienza dei difensori civici in tutti i paesi europei; la predisposizione di internship presso l’EOI e gli uffici dei difensori civici membri dell’EOI per studenti della Laurea magistrale in Istituzioni e politiche dei diritti umani e della pace dell'Università di Padova; l’organizzazione di un cilco di seminari in materia di Difesa civica nell’ambito dei corsi della Laurea magistrale, con la partecipazione dei Difensori civici membri dell'EOI; la creazione di una road map per migliorare la cooperazione con il Comitato internazionale di coordinamento delle Istituzioni nazionali per la protezione e promozione dei diritti umani presso l'Alto Commissario per i diritti umani delle Nazioni Unite e con il Consiglio d'Europa.

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Volksanwaltschaft | 04.06.2012 | 13:56

„Die Idee des Ombudsmannes in Europa stärken“

Südtiroler Volksanwältin bei internationaler Konferenz in Innsbruck
 
Volgger mit Isil Gachet (li.) und Reinhard Krismer (re.) Der ehemalige Tiroler Landeshauptmann und heutige Präsident der Kammer der Regionen im Europarat Herwig van Staa hat in Innsbruck zur internationalen Konferenz „Regionen im Europarat und in der europäischen Union“ geladen. Mit dabei war neben dem Südtiroler Landeshauptmann Luis Durnwalder auch die Südtiroler Volksanwältin Burgi Volgger. Volgger referierte über die Arbeit der regionalen Ombudsleute in Europa. Der Europarat und die europäische Union sind zwei Einrichtungen, die ähnliche Aufgaben verrichten. Beide Organisationen laufen aber oft parallel, es kommt selten zu einer guten Zusammenarbeit. Ein Umstand, unter dem vor allem auch die Regionen in Europa leiden. Ziel der internationalen Konferenz in Innsbruck war es deshalb die Zusammenarbeit der Regionen im Europarat und in der Europäischen Union zu stärken. Zur Konferenz eingeladen wurden dazu sämtliche Regierungschefs der europäischen Regionen mit Gesetzgebungsbefugnis. Landeshauptmann Luis Durnwalder hat die Konferenz aufmerksam verfolgt. Europaweit gleiche Standards für Volksanwälte Gastrednerin der Konferenz war eine weitere Südtirolerin, die Volksanwältin Burgi Volgger. Volgger hat als Präsidentin des Europäischen Ombudsman Institutes (EOI) über die Arbeit der regionalen Ombudsleute in Europa berichtet. Nach einer kurzen historischen Einführung hat Volgger eine Lanze für die regionalen Ombudsleute gebrochen. „Die wichtigsten Argumente für den regionalen Ombudsmann ist die Bürgernähe, die Bürgerfreundlichkeit und eine effiziente und unmittelbare Behandlung der Bürgeranliegen vor Ort“, sagte Volgger. Durch das Einschreiten des Ombudsmannes begegnen sich Bürger und Verwaltung auf Augenhöhe. „Neben der umfassenden Kontrolle der Verwaltung sehen heute die regionalen Ombudsleute auch im Menschenrechtsschutz einen bedeutenden Aspekt ihrer Tätigkeit“, erklärte Volgger weiter. „Deshalb sind wir vom EOI schon lange der Meinung, dass ein europäischer Standard an Zuständigkeiten für einen regionalen Ombudsmann angestrebt werden soll, um der Schaffung von Alibi-Institutionen vorzubeugen.“ Dazu bedarf es konkreter Verbesserungen. „Die Ombudsleute müssen finanziell von der Verwaltung unabhängig sein, sie müssen schriftliche Antworten der angeklagten Behörden bekommen und sie sollen die Kompetenz erhalten, vermutete Missstände aus eigenem Antrieb heraus zu überprüfen“, fasste Volgger die Bedingungen zusammen. „Erklärung von Innsbruck“ unterzeichnet In Zukunft stehen für die regionalen Ombusleute wichtige Herausforderungen an. „Es gilt die Einrichtung Volksanwalt bei den Bürgern noch bekannter zu machen, damit gerade die bedürftigen Schichten auf die Unterstützung der Volksanwaltschaft aufmerksam gemacht wird“, so Volgger. „Der Ombudsmann ist europaweit die einzige unabhängige Rechtsschutzeinrichtung, deren oberstes Ziel es ist, durch eine erfolgreiche Vermittlung das Vertrauen der Bürger in die Verwaltung und in die Politik zu stärken.“ Volgger fordert deshalb die Einrichtung regionaler Obmudsmann in Europa weiter auszubauen. Abschließend wurde die „Erklärung von Innsbruck“ beschlossen. Mit der Annahme dieser Erklärung wollen sich die in Innsbruck vertretenen Regionen dafür einsetzten, das Ombudseinrichtungen zur Kontrolle und Beratung der Verwaltung geschaffen und ausgebaut werden. ______________________________________________________________________________________________ Von: "GADESMANN Gundi" <gundi.gadesmann@ombudsman.europa.eu> Datum: 22. Mai 2012 09:10:24 GMT+02:00 An: "GADESMANN Gundi" <gundi.gadesmann@ombudsman.europa.eu> Betreff: Ombudsman calls on Commission to rectify deficiencies in Vienna airport investigation
European Ombudsman Press release no. 8/2012 Text attached in EN, DE, FR 22 May 2012

Ombudsman calls on Commission to rectify deficiencies in Vienna airport investigation

Missing environmental impact assessment for extension of Vienna airport

Presentata da Burgi Volgger la relazione sull'attività 2011 della Difesa civica

Da essa emergono l’avanzare della povertá, la preoccupazione per il posto di lavoro, soprattutto tra gli ultracinquantenni in mobilità, l’insofferenza verso l’aumento dei tributi. “La relazione, che offre spunti interessanti e preoccupanti, dimostra come la Difesa civica sia un punto di riferimento sempre piú importante per cittadine e cittadini”, commenta il presidente Mauro Minniti.


Volgger e Minniti. Sempre più persone vedono nella Difesa civica un alleato non solo nei rapporti con la pubblica amministrazione, ma anche, in un periodo di crisi, nel tentativo di tutelare il proprio tenore di vita: lo dimostra la relazione sull’attività della Difesa civica 2011, presentata questa mattina dalla Difensora civica Burgi Volgger. Dalla relazione emergono infatti alcuni temi chiave, primi fra i quali l’avanzare della povertà, con sempre più cittadine e cittadini non sono più in grado di stare al passo con una società competitiva come la nostra, e che si rivolgono alla Difesa civica per trovare una soluzione ai propri problemi chiedendo soprattutto di verificare la fondatezza del diniego o della riduzione di un sussidio, e  la preoccupazione per la sicurezza del posto di lavoro,  accentuatasi nel 2011 in particolare per i lavoratori di mezza età che hanno perso l’impiego, non ne trovano uno nuovo e fanno fatica a districarsi tra le nuove tipologie di contratto. Aumentano poi i reclami in materia di tributi, con sempre più persone di tutti i ceti sociali che hanno sollevato obiezioni riguardo alle richieste di pagamento, anche contenute, avanzate dai Comuni. Nel 2011, c’é poi da segnalare, la Difesa civica ha stipulato un accordo anche con gli ultimi due Comuni finora non convenzionati, ovvero Laion e Tubre: ora, per tutti e 116 Comuni della Provincia autonoma di Bolzano la Difesa civica risulta mediatrice e garante di una amministrazione efficiente e vicina ai cittadini. Nel dettaglio, sono stati 2.985 i reclami trattati nel 2011: in 876 casi, che richiedevano una corrispondenza tra l'ufficio retto da Burgi Volgger, l'amministrazione e i cittadini, è stata aperta una pratica, mentre 2.019 casi sono stati risolti in maniera informale. Il numero di segnalazioni è in leggero aumento rispetto all'anno precedente (quando i casi furono 2.902): considerando però che nel frattempo è stata istituita la figura del Garante per l’infanzia e l’adolescenza e sono aumentate le competenze del Comitato provinciale per le comunicazioni, esso risulta di particolare rilievo. Sono aumentati i reclami relativi all'ambito sociale e sanitario e le richieste di verificare l'esattezza dei tributi pretesi, soprattutto dai Comuni. A fronte di un aumento della preoccupazione per il posto di lavoro, sono diminuiti, come già nel 2010, i reclami dei dipendenti provinciali nei confronti della Ripartizione Personale: "Evidentemente", ritiene Volgger, che nel 2011 è stata riconfermata presidente dell’Istituto europeo dell’Ombudsman (EOI), "i pubblici dipendenti apprezzano sempre più la sicurezza del loro posto di lavoro". Diminuite anche le denunce di difficoltà meramente amministrative (silenzio dell’ammini­strazione, accesso agli atti, bilinguismo). Il 31% dei reclami riguarda il rapporto con i Comuni, il 19% quello con l'amministrazione provinciale, il 10,5% incomprensioni con l'Azienda sanitaria, l'8,5% lo Stato e servizi privatizzati, il 5% l'IPES, il 4% le Comunità comprensoriali, il 2% servizi privatizzati provinciali e comunali. Nella loro attività, Burgi Volgger e le collaboratrici del suo ufficio hanno trovato sempre maggiore disponibilità da parte dei responsabili degli uffici comunali e provinciali. "Sono evidenti", rileva inoltre Volgger, "gli sforzi intrapresi dall’ente pubblico verso l'e-government e il potenziamento dei servizi online e la creazione di nuovi strumenti, come il DURP. Resta però da migliorare il linguaggio usato dalla pubblica amministrazione". Complessivamente,  a livello provinciale si sono rivolti alla difesa civica 6 abitanti su mille: i cittadini e le cittadine più attivi in questo senso sono stati quelli dei Comprensori di Bolzano e della Valle d’Isarco (8,5 e 8 abitanti su mille), seguiti da quelli della Val Pusteria (5,5 su mille), della Val Venosta e dell’Alta Valle Isarco (5 su mille), del Burgraviato e di Salto–Sciliar (4,5 su mille). Dal  Comprensorio Oltradige-Bassa Atesina è giunto il minor numero di reclami: 3 su 1000 abitanti. Nel 36% dei casi l’utenza ha preferito avere un primo contatto personale: questo è avvenuto quotidianamente presso la nuova sede della Difesa civica a Bolzano, in via Cavour, 23, e in 138 mezze giornate di udienze nelle sedi distaccate a Bressanone, Brunico e Merano, Silandro, Vipiteno, Egna, nelle valli ladine e presso gli ospedali di Bolzano, Bressanone, Brunico e Merano. Nel 48% dei casi, l’utenza ha preso contatto telefonico. I reclami presentati per iscritto hanno costituito, invece, il 16% del totale; di questi, il 50% è stato inoltrato online. Il 77% delle pratiche si è concluso con soddisfazione per gli utenti: in metà dei casi, questi hanno capito che l'amministrazione aveva agito correttamente, nell'altra metà è stata invece la stessa amministrazione a modificare il proprio atteggiamento. Nel 18% dei casi, invece, non è stato possibile raggiungere una conclusione soddisfacente, o perché le autorità sono rimaste sulle proprie posizioni giuridicamente discutibili (8%), o perché chi aveva presentato il reclamo non si è convinto della correttezza dell'operato degli uffici (10%). Il 5% dei reclami è stato ritirato.    

Beck gratuliert Ulrich Galle

Der polnische Staatspräsident hat dem ehemaligen rheinland-pfälzischen Bürgerbeauftragen Ullrich Galle das Verdienstkreuz in Gold der Republik Polen verliehen. Ministerpräsident Kurt Beck nahm an der Überreichung im polnischen Generalkonsulat in Köln teil und gratulierte zu dieser hohen Ehrung sehr herzlich.
„Ullrich Galle hat als Gewerkschafter, als Minister und als Bürgerbeauftragter Solidarität und Menschlichkeit zum Maßstab seines Handelns gemacht“, betonte der Ministerpräsident bei der Feierstunde. 15 Jahre habe Galle das Amt des Ombudsmanns hervorragend ausgefüllt und das Recht der Bürgerinnen und Bürger auf eine gesetzeskonforme und auch menschliche Behandlung durch Behörden und Verwaltungen sehr engagiert eingefordert. Auf seinem Gebiet habe er aber nicht nur für Rheinland-Pfalz, sondern auch auf europäischer Ebene vieles bewirken können. „Als Präsident des Europäischen Ombudsmann-Institutes hat Ulli Galle dazu beigetragen, die Idee vom Bürgerbeauftragten europaweit zu fördern und zu vernetzen“, sagte Beck. Ihn verbinde mit Galle eine lange politische und persönliche Freundschaft. Deshalb freue er sich mit ihm über diese hohe polnische Anerkennung seines Engagements für Menschenrechte und Völkerverständigung.

Die polnische Generalkonsulin Jolanta Róza Kozlowska dankte Ullrich Galle bei der Überreichung für seine herausragenden Verdienste und betonte, dass diese Ehrung auch im bilateralen polnisch-deutschen Kontext wichtig sei.


Grußwort der Beauftragten für Bürgerrechte der Republik Polen Prof. Irena Lipowicz anlässlich der Überreichung des Verdienstkreuzes in Gold der Republik Polen an Herrn Ullrich Galle Sehr geehrter, lieber Herr Galle, Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren, Hohe Festversammlung, für die Einladung zum Festakt der Überreichung des Verdienstkreuzes in Gold der Republik Polen an Herrn Ullrich Galle möchte ich mich ganz herzlich bedanken. Leider ist es mir wegen früher eingegangener Verpflichtungen nicht möglich, persönlich an dieser Feierstunde teilzunehmen. So darf ich mit Ihnen die Freude teilen, indem ich an Sie folgende Worte richte, die Frau Generalkonsulin Jolanta Róża Kozłowska dankeswerterweise Ihnen vorliest. Ich möchte hiermit meine herzlichsten Glückwünsche an Herrn Ullrich Galle zu diesem feierlichen Anlass richten. Der polnische Staatspräsident hat Ihnen das Verdienstkreuz in Gold der Republik Polen auf Antrag meines unter tragischen Umständen verstorbenen Vorgängers Dr. Janusz Kochanowski verliehen. Deswegen ist es für mich als amtierende Beauftragte für Bürgerrechte ganz besonders wichtig, die Worte der Anerkennung und der Dankbarkeit an den Auszuzeichnenden richten zu können. Meine sehr geehrten Damen und Herren, Herr Ullrich Galle studierte Rechtswissenschaften an der Universität in Göttingen und Mainz. Er schloss sich Anfang 1973 der Gewerkschaft Öffentliche Dienste, Transport und Verkehr (ÖTV) zunächst als Gewerkschaftssekretär an, wurde später zum stellvertretenden Vorsitzenden und dann auch zum Vorsitzenden des ÖTV-Bezirkes Rheinland-Pfalz ernannt. Er amtierte im Kabinett des Ministerpräsidenten Rudolf Scharping vom Jahr 1991 bis zum Jahr 1994 als Minister für Arbeit, Soziales, Familie und Gesundheit. In den Jahren 1995-2010 war er Bürgerbeauftragter des Landes Rheinland-Pfalz. Seine langjährige Erfahrung in der Gewerkschaftstätigkeit und die Kenntnis der sozialen Thematik haben dazu beigetragen, dass er als Ombudsmann sehr engagiert war und mit großer Energie seine Mission „…die Stellung des Bürgers im Verkehr mit den Behörden zu stärken" und „…auf eine einvernehmliche Erledigung der Angelegenheit hinzuwirken", erfüllte. Er setzte sich für die Interessen der Hilfe suchenden Menschen gegenüber der Verwaltung entschieden ein, war der erste Bürgerbeauftragte der auch Sprechtage in Gefängnissen abhielt und einer der Vorläufer, der die Idee von öffentlichen Petitionen unterstützte. Ullrich Galle legte immer großen Wert auf Überparteilichkeit, die in der Aufgabe als Ombudsmann uns allen den Weg zeigen sollte. Seine Aktivität und Professionalität haben Anerkennung nicht nur auf dem Gebiet von Rheinland-Pfalz, sondern auch auf europäischer Ebene gefunden. Er engagierte sich zunächst seit 2005 als Vizepräsident des Europäischen Ombudsmann-Instituts (EOI) auch in die grenzüberschreitenden Zusammenarbeit mit Frankreich, Luxemburg und Belgien. Herr Ullrich Galle wurde dann im Jahr 2007 durch die Generalversammlung des EOI zu seinem neuen Präsidenten gewählt. Unter seiner Leitung wurde das EOI zu einer Organisation, die nicht nur die Vielfalt der Ombudsmann-Institutionen in Europa und in der Welt zur Kenntnis nimmt, sondern aktiv diese Institutionen unterstützt, die für ihre Unabhängigkeit und Effizienz im Aufbau und Schutz der Menschenrechte in schwierigen und sozialen Bedingungen kämpfen. Als Präsident war er bedeutend für die Stärkung der Ombudsmann-Institutionen in Mittel- und Osteuropa tätig. Für das Engagement Herrn Galle fühle ich zum verbindlichsten Dank verpflichtet. Umso mehr ist es mir eine große Freude, dass eine so außergewöhnliche Persönlichkeit heute das Verdienstkreuz in Gold der Republik Polen entgegennimmt. Die Anerkennung für das Werk Herrn Ullrich Galle als verdienten Verfechter der Menschenrechte ist wichtig nicht nur im menschenrechtlichen sondern auch im bilateralen polnisch-deutschen Kontext. Denn diese Anerkennung trägt ohne Weiteres auch zu der Vertiefung der beiderseitigen Zusammenarbeit unserer Länder bei. Mit größter Genugtuung werde ich den Petitionsausschuss des Deutschen Bundestages, mit dem ich eng zusammenarbeite, und dessen hochrangige Delegation ich vor einem Jahr in Büro der Beauftragten für Bürgerrechte in Warschau zu Gast haben durfte, über das heutige erfreuliche Ereignis in Kenntnis setzen. Meine sehr geehrten Damen und Herren, Ich darf Herrn Galle für die Zukunft weiterhin gute Gesundheit, viel Glück und persönliches Wohlergehen wünschen und Ihnen allen dafür danken, dass Sie auf sich den Weg nach Köln genommen haben, um dem Festakt beizuwohnen.  

LA N D TAG R H E I N LA N D - P FA L Z P R E S S E I N F O R M A T I O N Mainz, 26.04.2012 WEITERE INFORMATIONEN ERHALTEN SIE IN UNSERER PRESSESTELLE DEUTSCHHAUSPLATZ 12 • 55116 MAINZ • TELEFON • 06131- 208-2430 • TELEFAX • 06131-208-2590 INTERNET: http://www.landtag.rheinland-pfalz.de • E-MAIL: presse@landtag.rlp.de



Ullrich Galle erhält das Goldene Verdienstkreuz der Republik Polen

Diritti sociali fondamentali vanno protetti

Soziale Grundrechte müssen geschützt werden

Recht auf Arbeit, Bildung, Wohnen und Versorgung bei Krankheit und Versorgung im Alter– das sind nur einige der sozialen Grundrechte der Bürger der EU. Leider sieht es in der Praxis oft anders aus. Die Volksanwälte Italiens wollen in Zukunft für eine effizientere Umsetzung dieser sozialen Grundrechte sorgen.   Die sozialen Grundrechte der EU müssen in Zukunft besser umgesetzt werden. Darauf haben sich die italienischen Volksanwälte auf einem Seminar des Volksanwaltes der Region Emilia Romagna, Daniele Lugli, in Bologna verständigt. Anwesend waren Marco Mascia, Direktor des Institutes für Menschenrechte an der Universität in Padova, Antonio Caputo, der Koordinator der italienischen Volksanwälte, Rafael Ribò vom Internationalen Ombudsman-Institut IOI, Eija Salonen vom Büro des Europäischen Ombudsmans und Vertreter von Organisationen, welche sich mit dem Thema Migration befassen. Für das Europäische Ombudsman Institut war Südtirols Volksanwältin Burgi Volgger vertreten. „Es geht uns darum, dass den Menschen grundlegende Lebensgüter wie Arbeit, Bildung, Wohnen oder auch Versorgung in besonderen Lebenssituationen wie Krankheit und Alter garantiert werden“ erklärt Volgger. Dabei wurde vor allem über eine bessere Umsetzung der Charta der Grundrechte der Europäischen Union diskutiert. „Sie enthält die grundlegenden Rechte und Werte, die für eine menschenwürdige Existenz von der Gesellschaft als notwendig erachtet werden. Diese Rechte stehen allen Menschen, unabhängig von ihrer Staatsangehörigkeit offen“, so Volgger. Sie stehen allen Menschen, also auch Ausländern und Staatenlosen offen. „Es ist Aufgabe der italienischen Volksanwälte, diese sozialen Grundrechte in konkrete Grundsätze umzuwandeln und sie so für die Bürger in ihrem Alltag lebendig werden zu lassen“, sagt Volgger.   Soziale Grundrechte besser umsetzen   Vor allem das Recht auf Arbeit, Bildung, Wohnen und Krankenversorgung sind Rechte, die die Bürger täglich im Umgang mit Verwaltung in Anspruch nehmen können.„Auf diesem Gebiet gibt es eindeutig eine gemeinsame Grundlage für die Arbeit der italienischenVolksanwälte“, ist Volgger überzeugt. Der Europarat, das Europäische Parlament und nicht zuletzt die Generalversammlung der Vereinten Nationen unterstreichen in grundlegenden Empfehlungen und Resolutionen die Rolle der Volksanwälte beim Schutz der Menschenrechte und der Wahrung der sozialen Grundrechte. Die 14 regionalen italienischen Volksanwälte waren sich einig, dass das Konzept einer „guten Verwaltung“ nicht nur als eine Reihe von Rechtsnormen verstanden werden soll, sondern auch als über die Rechtmäßigkeit hinausgehendes Konzept von Gerechtigkeit und Fairness.   Zukunftsaussichten der Volksanwälte in Italien Als EOI Präsidentin ist Volgger der Meinung, dass „alle Kräfte zu bündeln sind, damit - so wie in ganz Europa üblich - endlich ein nationaler Volksanwalt eingerichtet wird. Zusätzlich sollen bei der Ratifizierung des Zusatzprotokolls zur UN-Anti-Folterkonvention OPCAT die Volksanwälte formell mit der Aufgabe des Menschenrechtsschutzes betraut werden. „Nur mit diesen zwei Maßnahmen kann das italienische Ombudsmanwesen grundlegend gestärkt werden und nur unter diesen Voraussetzungen können die italienischen Volksanwälte die Grundrechte und Menschenrechte wirksam schützen“, ist Volgger überzeugt.  

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Volgger Präsidentin der europäischen Volksanwälte