The Multifaceted Image of the Romanian Ombudsman

Abstract

The article addresses the issue of the Ombudsman’s image and its impact on the degree of legitimacy the institution enjoys among its stakeholders. Based on three, different but complementary, facets of the image concept (desired, projected and perceived image), the empirical research unfolded herein is trying to grasp the perception of different target groups – individuals, public administration bodies, members of the Parliament and the Ombudsman institution itself - regarding the role and the effectiveness of the People’s Advocate. Applying an extensive number of questionnaires and conducting interviews with the abovementioned target groups as well as researching a broad range of activity reports of the Ombudsman, will offer both an extensive and a comprehensive image of the People’s Advocate. The main conclusion of the research is that the Romanian Ombudsman should take upon a more pro-active role in communicating with the target groups by cooperating more closely with them and proving seriousness in addressing human rights violations by government authorities. Greater visibility, coupled with a strong commitment to deal with complaints received by individuals will generate support of the target groups and thus legitimacy.