The theme of the AOM Conference held in Malta from 29 October to 1 November was 'The Right to Good Administration: myth, aspiration or reality?' It also highlighted the various issues facing the Ombudsman members of the Organisation: the concepts of good administration and good governance, although linked, are not necessarily synonymous, and the right to good administration is a fundamental right, although different legal systems give it various forms.
The presentations and debates provided answers to the question framing the conference and confirmed that, far from being a myth, good administration is both an ambition and a reality for Ombudsmen. Ambitious, because they have the daunting task of constantly striving to improve institutional functioning and reality because they play an effective part in ensuring that the rule of law is upheld daily.
Furthermore, the High Commissioner moderated a round table discussion on 'good administration, human rights and the protection of privacy', which provided an opportunity to explore the principles and legal tools for guaranteeing these rights and to share experiences and good practices.
