The 10th Anniversary of the constitution of the High Commissioner for the Protection of Rights, Liberties, and for Mediation of Monaco was commemorated in a ceremony attended by prominent personalities in the field of human rights, rule of law and governance. The Office was established by the Sovereign Ordinance of 30 October 2013. It is a recognised fact that the office of the High Commissioner has played a remarkable role in the Principality of Monaco in protecting the fundamental rights of persons and actively acting as a mediator.

The event was not only held under the patronage but was also attended by H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco. The distinguished guests who were invited to attend and were present for the occasion included the Parliamentary Ombudsman of Malta, Judge Emeritus Joseph Zammit McKeon.

In her introductory address, Ms Marina Ceyssac, [link to speech] the current High Commissioner of Monaco, highlighted her institution’s role as a protector of rights and liberties, emphasising her office’s drive to support persons seeking to assert their rights in everyday life outside the formal legal process.

The event was also addressed by Mr Peter Svetina, [link to speech] Ombudsman of Slovenia and Vice President of the Association of Mediterranean Ombudsmen. He dwelt on various issues that should be on the agenda of every Ombudsman institution, foremost amongst which the protection of human rights of every person, on the one hand, and the other, placing central in the initiatives of the office of the Ombudsman the right to good administration in domestic law following on the model already in force within the framework of Article 41 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union.

Mr Patrice Davost, [link to speech] representing Monaco as a member of the European Commission, highlighted the importance of combating racism and intolerance and how the Principality’s efforts align with broader European initiatives. Mr. Davost detailed the ECRI’s work, goals, and impact while recognising Monaco’s significant contributions to these efforts.

Next to address those present was Ms Stéphanie Mourou-Vikström, [link to speech] Monegasque Judge of the European Court of Human Rights. Her presentation was particularly important in the sense that she expressly advocated the role of the Office of the Ombudsman not just as an investigator of malpractice by the public administration but more so as a promoter and a defender of fundamental human rights prior to resorting to litigation.

H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco concluded the event by thanking all those present for attending, especially the representatives from Ombudsman institutions outside Monaco, including Malta. He had words of praise for the former High Commissioner Ambassador Claire Eastwood, who incidentally will be taking up office as Ambassador of the Principality of Monaco to Malta, and also for the current High Commissioner Ms Marina Ceyssac and her dedicated team for their sterling work in their daily efforts in promoting and defending human rights.