Difesa civica e Intelligenza Artificiale: online il volume che ripensa la tutela dei diritti nell’era digitale

Date of article: 17/06/2026

Daily News of: 19/06/2026

Country:  Italy - Lazio

Author:

Article language: it

Presentata alla Conferenza Internazionale dei Difensori civici, la pubblicazione di Marino Fardelli, Guido Giusti e Ignacio Domínguez propone un approccio strategico, predittivo e innovativo per garantire i diritti dei cittadini.

difensori e IA

È disponibile online la pubblicazione “Il Difensore civico nell’era dell’Intelligenza Artificiale. Diritti e tecnologie emergenti: un approccio strategico, predittivo e trasformativo alla tutela dei diritti”, un contributo innovativo che affronta una delle sfide più rilevanti del nostro tempo: il rapporto tra trasformazione digitale, intelligenza artificiale e tutela dei diritti dei cittadini.

L’opera nasce dalla collaborazione tra Marino Fardelli, Difensore civico della Regione Lazio e Presidente del Coordinamento nazionale dei Difensori civici italiani, Guido Giusti, Difensore civico della Regione Emilia-Romagna e Vicepresidente del Coordinamento nazionale dei Difensori civici italiani, e Ignacio Domínguez, docente universitario ed esperto di Intelligenza Artificiale.

Il volume propone una riflessione approfondita sul ruolo che le istituzioni di garanzia sono chiamate a svolgere in un contesto caratterizzato da una crescente digitalizzazione dei processi amministrativi e dall’impiego sempre più diffuso di sistemi basati sull’intelligenza artificiale. Una trasformazione che offre opportunità significative in termini di efficienza, accessibilità e qualità dei servizi pubblici, ma che pone al contempo interrogativi cruciali sul piano della trasparenza, della responsabilità, dell’equità e della protezione dei diritti fondamentali.

La pubblicazione è stata presentata a Roma nell’ambito della Conferenza Internazionale dei Difensori civici, svoltasi il 28 e 29 maggio 2026, occasione di confronto tra rappresentanti istituzionali, esperti e studiosi provenienti da diversi Paesi sul futuro delle istituzioni di garanzia nell’era digitale.

Il testo sviluppa una visione innovativa della difesa civica, orientata non soltanto alla gestione delle segnalazioni e alla risoluzione dei conflitti tra cittadini e pubbliche amministrazioni, ma anche alla prevenzione delle criticità attraverso strumenti di analisi predittiva e monitoraggio sistemico.

L’obiettivo è promuovere una difesa civica sempre più capace di anticipare le problematiche, individuare tempestivamente disfunzioni amministrative e contribuire al miglioramento continuo della qualità dei servizi pubblici, mantenendo al centro la tutela della persona e dei suoi diritti.

Uno dei temi centrali affrontati nel volume riguarda la necessità di garantire che l’introduzione dell’intelligenza artificiale nei processi decisionali pubblici avvenga nel rispetto dei principi democratici e dello Stato di diritto.

Gli autori evidenziano come la tecnologia non possa sostituire il giudizio umano nelle decisioni che incidono sui diritti delle persone e sottolineano l’importanza di assicurare trasparenza degli algoritmi, controllo umano, accountability delle amministrazioni e piena accessibilità ai meccanismi di tutela.

La sfida, infatti, non è esclusivamente tecnologica, ma culturale e istituzionale: si tratta di costruire un modello di innovazione che rafforzi la fiducia dei cittadini nelle istituzioni e renda la pubblica amministrazione più vicina, efficiente e inclusiva.

Un particolare ringraziamento viene rivolto al Consiglio regionale del Lazio, che ha sostenuto la realizzazione e la diffusione dell’opera, confermando il proprio impegno nella promozione dell’innovazione istituzionale, della partecipazione democratica e della centralità dei diritti dei cittadini.

La pubblicazione (in italiano e spagnolo per ora) è scaricabile gratuitamente dal sito ufficiale della difesa civica della Regione Lazio: https://difensorecivico.regione.lazio.it/

«Questo volume – dichiarano Marino Fardelli, Guido Giusti e Ignacio Domínguez – vuole offrire un contributo concreto al dibattito sul futuro delle istituzioni di garanzia nell’epoca dell’intelligenza artificiale. L’innovazione tecnologica rappresenta una straordinaria opportunità, ma deve sempre essere governata secondo principi etici, democratici e costituzionali. Il nostro obiettivo è promuovere una visione in cui le tecnologie emergenti siano strumenti al servizio della persona, della buona amministrazione e dell’effettiva tutela dei diritti, contribuendo a costruire istituzioni più moderne, accessibili e capaci di rispondere alle esigenze dei cittadini».

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Human Rights Ombudswoman Attends International Conference in Berlin on the Execution of ECtHR Judgments

Date of article: 16/06/2026

Daily News of: 19/06/2026

Country:  Slovenia

Author:

Article language: en

The Human Rights Ombudswoman of the Republic of Slovenia, Dr Simona Drenik Bavdek, attended an international conference on the execution of judgments of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) in Berlin today, 16 June 2026. The event was organised by the Council of Europe and the European Network of National Human Rights Institutions (ENNHRI), in cooperation with the German Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection, which currently chairs the Network of Execution Coordinators (ExCN).

Stephanie Hubig, the German Federal Minister of Justice and Consumer Protection, welcomed the participants at the opening of the event, which brought together representatives of national human rights institutions, government officials participating in the ECtHR judgment execution coordination network, Council of Europe representatives, government officials, and academics.

The opening session was followed by a panel discussion in which Dr Simona Drenik Bavdek also took part. Entitled 'Cooperation as a Response to Challenges', the discussion saw her join a representative of the Council of Europe’s Department for the Execution of Judgments, a national coordinator for the execution of ECtHR judgments, and an academic representative. Together, they discussed the challenges related to the execution of ECtHR judgments, the role of national human rights institutions in this process, and the importance of effective cooperation among various stakeholders in ensuring the execution of ECtHR judgments is effective, full, and timely.

During the discussion, the Ombudswoman highlighted Slovenia as an example of good practice, both in executing the most complex pilot judgments, which required a specific approach, and in executing other judgments. While at the end of 2015, Slovenia had more than 90 per cent of all judgments against it pending execution, amounting to 309 judgments, today only six remain pending.

She emphasized the importance of establishing an interministerial working group for the execution of ECtHR judgments, of which the Human Rights Ombudsman is an external member. She also highlighted the important coordinating role played by the Ministry of Justice in this process.

Furthermore, she particularly highlighted the Ombudsman’s recommendation that action reports and action plans should be translated into national languages for transparency purposes. This proposal was supported by the majority of participants and experts as a new initiative. She also stressed the importance of national parliaments, advocating for an annual parliamentary debate on the state of execution of ECtHR judgments in each country. This proposal was likewise well received, as it strengthens democratic dialogue and adds further political weight to the overall process.

The conference took place at a time when the political and legal environment for the ECtHR was becoming increasingly challenging. Participants discussed the challenges of executing judgments and strengthening confidence in the European Convention on Human Rights system, as well as the importance of dialogue and cooperation among member states. Particular attention was also devoted to sensitive areas such as migration and asylum, where differing views on ECtHR case law have emerged in recent years.

Executing ECtHR judgments is essential to ensuring that the rights protected by the European Convention on Human Rights are effectively upheld. Although states are responsible for implementing judicial decisions, successful execution often requires the involvement of a broad range of stakeholders at both the national and European levels. Cases have become increasingly complex in recent years, while Europe faces changing challenges and a growing need for sustainable reforms.

Throughout the day, participants exchanged experiences and good practices through the opening panel, thematic workshops and the concluding discussion, and explored practical ways of strengthening cooperation. Today’s meeting aimed to establish more structured cooperation among key stakeholders and support more effective, transparent and sustainable processes for executing judgments across Europe.

The event brought participants together to:

  • reflect on the respective roles and added value of national human rights institutions (NHRIs) and execution coordinators in the judgment execution process;
  • exchange good practices and challenges related to supporting the timely, effective and sustainable implementation of ECtHR judgments;
  • discuss the role of NHRIs in reporting to the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe;
  • examine how Council of Europe projects and joint initiatives can support enhanced cooperation at the national level; and
  • explore the broader role of NHRIs in the protection of human rights across Europe.

A meeting of the ENNHRI Board of Directors was held in Berlin yesterday, hosted by the German Institute for Human Rights. The Secretariat and Board members reviewed the most important developments in ENNHRI’s work, opportunities to build on past achievements, the next steps in implementing the network’s new strategic plan, and key governance issues for the coming months. The Slovenian Human Rights Ombudswoman, Dr Simona Drenik Bavdek, participated in the meeting in her capacity as a Board member.

ENNHRI brings together 51 national human rights institutions from across Europe. NHRIs, working through the ENNHRI network, are playing an increasingly important role in monitoring the execution of judgments, reporting to the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, advising states, and strengthening capacity-building and awareness-raising efforts. This work helps to prevent recurring violations and achieve systemic improvements in human rights protection.

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Panel discussion on combating poverty

Date of article: 12/06/2026

Daily News of: 19/06/2026

Country:  Croatia

Author:

Article language: en

Ombudswoman Tena Šimonović Einwalter took part on 10 June 2026 in a round table organised by the Croatian Helsinki Committee, entitled “How to Stop Poverty – Contributing to Addressing the Causes of Poverty in Croatia Ahead of Upcoming Global Challenges”.

The Ombudswoman emphasised that poverty and social exclusion are important areas in the work of the institution of the Ombudswoman, and that this topic is among those on which the institution receives the highest number of complaints each year.

Poverty is a significant social challenge in Croatia, one to which many people are unfortunately exposed, especially in the context of rising inflation and increasing living costs. Those at particular risk include people on low incomes, unemployed persons, often the long-term unemployed, older persons and pensioners, single parents, families with several children, Roma families, and persons with disabilities.

The Ombudswoman also pointed out that poverty is deeply connected with human rights, as it often prevents access to rights and freedoms that are essential for a dignified life. She stressed that poverty is not only an economic problem, or a lack of money, but also a matter of social exclusion, discrimination and access to human rights.

Precisely because poverty affects people in different ways, effectively combating it depends on inter-institutional cooperation, where there is certainly room for improvement. It is therefore necessary to strengthen coordination between all stakeholders, improve the exchange of information, and ensure timely and accessible support for persons at risk of poverty, while keeping long-term solutions in mind rather than relying on temporary care.

Alongside Ombudswoman Šimonović Einwalter, the discussion also included Ljubo Jurčić, Zoran Šućur, Jasna Vaniček Fila, Višnja Stanišić, Niko Kostanić, Fr. Tomislav Glavnik, Imam Arslani Mevludi, Archimandrite Danilo Ljubotina and Damir Ljubotina.

More information on this topic is available in the Ombudswoman’s Report.

    

 

Najnovije novosti

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Office of the Ombudsman participates in conference on the implementation of the EU Migration and Asylum Pact

Date of article: 18/06/2026

Daily News of: 19/06/2026

Country:  Malta

Author:

Article language: en

Representatives of the Office of the Ombudsman participated in an international conference in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, dedicated to the implementation of the European Union Migration and Asylum Pact, which entered into force on 12 June 2026.

The conference was organised by the National Ombudsman of the Netherlands and President of the International Ombudsman Institute (IOI) European Region, Reinier van Zutphen, and brought together around 40 participants from 20 countries, including ombuds institutions, academics, policymakers and migration experts.

The meeting aimed to explore the implications of the new migration framework for ombuds institutions across Europe and to identify common priorities and challenges arising from its implementation.

The conference also provided an opportunity for participants to exchange experiences and discuss how ombuds institutions can remain effective within the new migration framework.

The Office of the Ombudsman was represented by Dr Brian Said, Head of Investigations, and Mr Jurgen Cassar, Head of Communications and Research.

The role of ombuds institutions under the Migration Pact

Opening the conference, Reinier van Zutphen underlined the importance of developing a common understanding of the Pact and its impact on both national administrations and independent oversight institutions. He explained that the meeting sought to identify areas where ombuds institutions could work together in monitoring implementation and safeguarding fundamental rights.

The conference also marked the launch of a new Migration Working Group within the IOI European Region, which will provide a platform for continued cooperation and exchange of expertise among ombuds institutions.

Border procedures and detention

Addressing the first session, the Greek Ombudsman, Andreas Pottakis, described the Pact as a major challenge both for public administrations responsible for implementation and for oversight bodies tasked with monitoring compliance.

He highlighted the complexity of asylum and return border procedures, particularly where children may also become subject to border processes. Although the Pact is largely composed of directly applicable regulations, significant aspects remain dependent on national implementation.

Mr Pottakis stressed that effective protection of fundamental rights and adherence to the rule of law will largely depend on the capacity, expertise and preparedness of national administrations. He also underlined the need for monitoring bodies to possess adequate resources and specialised knowledge to assess implementation effectively.

Reception systems and humanitarian standards

The reception session was led by Maartje Janssen Loomans of the Netherlands Red Cross, who examined the growing complexity of reception systems across Europe.

Drawing on the experience of managing more than 400 emergency and semi-structured reception facilities since 2022, she explained that reception extends far beyond the provision of food, shelter and hygiene. Effective reception requires psychological support, social inclusion measures, community-building initiatives and access to specialised services.

The presentation highlighted increasing pressure on reception capacity due to continued displacement from Ukraine and the implementation of the Migration Pact, while many facilities remain designed for short-term accommodation rather than long-term stays.

It was emphasised that the professionalisation of reception services, supported by quality standards, independent oversight, accountability mechanisms, staff training and contingency planning, will be essential if Europe is to move from emergency responses towards a sustainable and dignified reception system.

Independent monitoring mechanisms

The session on monitoring and independent monitoring mechanisms was introduced by Ülle Madise, Chancellor of Justice of Estonia.

She focused on the potential role of ombuds institutions within the independent monitoring mechanisms required under the Pact. It was recognised that the structure of these mechanisms is likely to differ from one country to another depending on national constitutional and administrative arrangements.

Participants discussed the significant additional responsibilities that such mechanisms may place on ombuds institutions and the corresponding need for increased expertise, staffing and financial resources.

Children and the Migration Pact

Professor Mark Klaassen of Leiden University and the Advisory Council on Migration addressed the implications of the Pact for children.

He noted that the new legislative framework represents a move towards greater uniformity in the application of EU asylum and migration law. Professor Klaassen stressed that the rights and best interests of children must remain central throughout implementation.

He emphasised that legal safeguards must be matched by effective practice, particularly in relation to vulnerability assessments, child-sensitive procedures, reception conditions and protection mechanisms.

Professor Klaassen also argued that the debate should not end with the entry into force of the Pact. Continuous monitoring and evaluation will be necessary to assess implementation and ensure that children's rights are respected in practice.

Return procedures and future challenges

The final thematic session was delivered by Professor Tineke Strik, Member of the European Parliament and Rapporteur on aspects of the Migration Pact.

Professor Strik examined the new return border procedure established by Regulation (EU) 2024/1349 and highlighted concerns regarding the absence of an independent fundamental rights monitoring mechanism during the return phase.

She also analysed the relationship between the new Return Border Procedure Regulation and the existing Return Directive, emphasising that Member States remain bound by safeguards relating to detention conditions, non-refoulement, vulnerability assessments, emergency healthcare and non-coercive measures.

Looking ahead, she drew attention to proposals to revise the Frontex Regulation and raised concerns about the adequacy of safeguards and accountability mechanisms accompanying any expansion of powers.

Key themes emerging from the discussions

Following the presentations, participants engaged in roundtable discussions using the "Polder Shop" format, allowing for open exchanges on national experiences and expectations regarding implementation of the Pact.

Several common concerns emerged. Participants noted that border procedures and detention measures risk lowering existing protection standards, while the independent monitoring mechanisms required by the Pact have not yet been established in most countries.

Questions were also raised regarding the protection of children, the practical organisation of returns and the operation of external processing arrangements.

Strengthening cooperation between ombuds institutions

The conference concluded that the Migration and Asylum Pact present significant challenges for public administrations and oversight institutions alike.

At the same time, it offers an opportunity for ombuds institutions across Europe to strengthen cooperation, share expertise and contribute collectively to safeguarding fundamental rights within the new migration framework.

The newly established IOI Europe Migration Working Group will provide an important forum for continuing these discussions and for supporting ombuds institutions in monitoring the implementation of the Pact in the years ahead.

 

 

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Keine Gratisvignette für Frau mit Behinderung – Volksanwalt Luisser sorgt für Klarstellung

Date of article: 18/06/2026

Daily News of: 19/06/2026

Country:  Austria

Author:

Article language: de

Trotz Behindertenpass und Mautbefreiung ist eine Beschwerdeführerin wegen einer angeblich fehlenden Vignette zur Ersatzmautzahlung aufgefordert worden. Laut Verkehrsministerium war ein technischer Systemfehler der Zulassungsevidenz ursächlich. Volksanwalt Christoph Luisser konnte den Sachverhalt nun aufklären.

Obwohl eine Burgenländerin über einen aufrechten Behindertenausweis mit Zusatzeintrag verfügt und ihr Fahrzeug unter 3,5 Tonnen wiegt, wurde sie von der ASFINAG im Februar 2026 zur Zahlung einer Ersatzmaut aufgefordert. Das Erstaunliche dabei: Eigentlich steht der Beschwerdeführerin unter den genannten Voraussetzungen eine gratis Vignette für Autobahnen und Schnellstraßen zu.

Die Betroffene wandte sich daraufhin an Volksanwalt Christoph Luisser, welcher nach kurzer Zeit bereits für Klarheit sorgen konnte. In einem Schreiben forderte der Volksanwalt den zuständigen Verkehrsminister Peter Hanke zum Handeln auf. 

Dieser räumte in seiner Stellungnahme einen „technischen Systemfehler“ in der Zulassungsevidenz ein. Aufgrund eines fehlerhaften Eintrags konnte der Dame keine kostenlose Jahresvignette zuerkannt werden.

ASFINAG zahlt geleistete Ersatzmaut zurück – Kosten für den Kauf der Jahresvignette werden erstattet

Nachdem der Datenbankfehler entdeckt und unverzüglich behoben wurde, konnte sich die Beschwerdeführerin über die Rückerstattung der bezahlten Ersatzmaut freuen. Zusätzlich werden ihr die entstanden Kosten für die Autobahnvignetten der Jahre 2024 und 2025 rücküberwiesen. Ebenso wurde auf ihr Fahrzeug eine kostenlose Jahresvignette für das laufende Jahr registriert.

„Ich begrüße die rasche Reaktion des Verkehrsministeriums und die Zusage, dass der Datenbestand bereinigt worden ist“, sagte Volksanwalt Christoph Luisser.

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Link to the Ombudsman Daily News archives from 2002 to 20 October 2011