The OIC Ombudsman Association President and Chief Ombudsman of the Republic of Türkiye, H.E. Mehmet Akarca, received Mr. William Massolin, Head of the Council of Europe Programme Office in Ankara, for a courtesy visit aimed at reaffirming and expanding bilateral cooperation in the field of good governance and human rights.
During the meeting, Mr. Massolin emphasized the pivotal role played by ombudsman institutions in upholding democratic values, promoting transparency, and safeguarding fundamental rights across Europe. He acknowledged the Chief Ombudsman Institution of Türkiye as a key national partner in advancing the Council of Europe’s principles, particularly in the areas of public accountability and access to justice.
Both sides expressed a shared commitment to strengthening the current collaboration between the Ombudsman Institution and the Council of Europe Programme Office in Ankara. Discussions included potential areas for joint projects, capacity-building initiatives, and policy dialogue to enhance the effectiveness and reach of ombudsman services across the country.
The visit reflects the growing importance of international partnerships in supporting the institutional development of oversight bodies and reinforcing their role in protecting citizens’ rights. It also reaffirms the mutual interest in aligning national oversight practices with European standards of governance and human rights protection.
