On Thursday, 18 September, the Saeima approved Karina Palkova as Ombudsman.

Until now, Palkova has served as Dean and leading researcher at the Faculty of Social Sciences of Rīga Stradiņš University, as well as as attorney-at-law specialising in medical law. She has also worked as an adviser to the Minister of Health on doctors’ and patients’ rights.

Palkova previously emphasised to the members of the Saeima Human Rights and Public Affairs Committee that the Ombudsman must work in such an effective way that both the state administration and the public have confidence in the institution. Speaking about her work priorities, she highlighted issues of national security and language, human rights in the digital environment, the rights of children and patients, as well as the protection of victims of domestic violence. As Palkova stressed, every submission will be examined on its merits. Since the field of human rights is rapidly evolving, the Ombudsman must be able to anticipate future challenges and cooperate with other countries.

The Ombudsman is responsible for ensuring that human rights are respected in Latvia and that state and local government institutions observe the principle of good governance. In their work, the Ombudsman is independent and is subject only to the law. No one has the right to influence the Ombudsman in the performance of their functions and duties. The office is not compatible with membership in political parties.

The Ombudsman is confirmed in office by the Saeima on the proposal of no fewer than 10 Members of Parliament. The term of office of the Ombudsman is five years, and the same person may serve for no more than two consecutive terms.

Saeima Press Service