Official inauguration, by H.S.H. Prince Albert II, of the Office of the Monegasque High Commissioner

On 15 March 2015, H.S.H. Prince Albert II officially inaugurated the Office of the Monegasque High Commissioner for the Protection of Rights, Liberties and for Mediation on the occasion of the institution’s installation in its new premises located at Bloc A, Les Jardins d’Apolline, in Monaco's La Condamine district.

This new public mediation body was created in October 2013 and has been operating since March 2014, when Anne Eastwood was appointed as Monaco's first High Commissioner. This free, universally accessible entity offers a peaceful and non-confrontational way of ensuring that Monaco's public services respect individuals' rights. It also deals with allegations of unjustified discrimination in the private sector.

Alongside the Sovereign Prince and the High Commissioner, the inauguration ceremony was attended by numerous Monegasque officials and other senior figures from the world of mediation, including Mrs Angeli-Troccaz, Deputy French Ombudsman, representing Mr Jacques Toubon. Her presence at the ceremony reflected the close working relationship between the French and Monegasque institutions.

In her speech, Anne Eastwood paid tribute to Prince Albert II and his determination to ensure that individual rights are recognised and protected in Monaco – a commitment reflected in the creation of the Office of the High Commissioner.

She outlined the steps that the institution had taken during its first year, including practical organisational work and public awareness efforts. She also announced the launch of the institution's official website (www.hautcommissariat.mc), providing simplified access to its services via a new online referral process. She also revealed that the Office of the High Commissioner will soon be publishing its first annual activity report, which will outline its progress on the cases handled to date (around 70) and will indicate areas in which changes can be made to improve the day-to-day lives of citizens. 

At the end of the ceremony, H.S.H. Prince Albert II formally unveiled a commemorative plaque, which will be on display in the public waiting room at the High Commissioner's offices.