European Ombudsman - Main contents

The European Ombudsman investigates complaints about poor administration by EU institutions or other EU bodies. These may be lodged by citizens or residents of EU countries or by EU-based associations or businesses.

What does the Ombudsman do?

The Ombudsman investigates different types of poor administration, for example:

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  unfair conduct
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  discrimination
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  abuse of power
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  lack of information or refusal to provide it
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  unnecessary delays
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  incorrect procedures.

How is the Ombudsman chosen?

The European Parliament elects the Ombudsman for a renewable 5-year term. This is one of its first tasks when newly elected.

How does the Ombudsman work?

The Ombudsman's office launches investigations either in response to complaints or on its own initiative. An impartial body, it takes no orders from any government or other organisation. It produces an annual activity report for the European Parliament.

The Ombudsman may be able to solve your problem simply by informing the institution concerned. If more is needed, every effort is made to reach an amicable solution that will put matters right. Should this fail, the Ombudsman can make recommendations to the institution. If these are not accepted, the Ombudsman can draw up a special report to the European Parliament, which must then take appropriate action.

The Ombudsman and you

If you are dissatisfied with an EU institution, body, office or agency, you should first give it a chance to put things right. If that fails, you can complain to the Ombudsman.

You must make your complaint within 2 years of the date on which you became aware of the problem. Make sure you say who you are, which institution or body you are complaining about, and why. You may ask for the complaint to remain confidential.

If the Ombudsman cannot deal with your complaint, you will be informed of other bodies that may be able to help.