Ombudsman as a body protecting human rights

Abstract

The paper begins with an outline of history of the institution of ombudsman and its place in the Polish legal system. The main body of the paper contains the description of the scope of activities of the Polish Ombudsman (in Polish nomenclature ‘the commissioner for the protection of civil rights’). The duties of the Ombudsman include: supporting individuals in their claims, filing petitions to the Constitutional Tribunal, public appearances, filing enquiries to the Supreme Court and to the Supreme Administrative Court. The institution of ombudsman is well grounded in the Polish legal system which fosters the efficacy of this post. Having in mind a big number of successful interventions of the Polish Ombudsmen, Polish organs creating and enforcing law are more vigilant and careful in their actions.