An ombudsman is a government official who investigates and resolves complaints against the public sector or private entities. The term comes from Old Norse and means 'representative' or 'commissioner'. Learn about the origins, etymology and roles of ombudsmen around the world. Meaning of Ombudsman in Administrative Law An Ombudsman in administrative law is an independent official or body appointed by the government to oversee and investigate complaints and grievances against administrative actions and decisions made by government agencies, departments or public officials. The primary purpose of an Ombudsman in administrative law is to ensure transparency, fairness, accountability and adherence to legal and procedural standards within the administrative processes ... What Is an Ombudsman ? An Ombudsman is an independent official appointed to investigate complaints from the public about government departments, private organizations, or public service providers. The goal is to protect individuals against abuse of power, unfair decisions, or poor administration. The word “ Ombudsman ” comes from Swedish, meaning “representative.” Sweden introduced the role in 1809, and many countries have since adopted it in both the public and private sectors.
