Ombuds can, ombuds can’t, ombuds should, ombuds shan’t: a call toimprove evaluation of the ombudsman institution

This chapter argues that ongoing review of the operation of the ombudsman institution is critical. The chapter examines the frequency and nature of large-scale reviews of government and private industry ombudsman undertaken in the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand. In doing so the chapter discusses the nature of regulation of the ombudsman institution with a particular focus upon the bodies which provide ‘accreditation’ or ‘membership’ to recognise institutions as ombuds. It concludes that the current regulation of the ombudsman institution is inadequate and suggests reform.

Not yet translated