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"The ombudsman can play an important role in Albania by acting as an independent monitor of human rights abuses. But it is an empty gesture unless the proper person fills the post -- someone who is respected by the public for his or her professionalism and objectivity."
Fred Abrahams Balkans researcher at Human Rights Watch

"The ombudsman can play an important role in Albania by acting as an independent monitor of human rights abuses," said Fred Abrahams, Balkans researcher at Human Rights Watch, an international monitoring group based in New York. "But it is an empty gesture unless the proper person fills the post -- someone who is respected by the public for his or her professionalism and objectivity."

The selection process, Abrahams said, must be fully transparent and open to the public. Human Rights Watch recommended that the Albanian parliament sponsor public debates on the issue and that local nongovernmental organizations be consulted on possible candidates.

According to the ombudsman law, the parliamentary commissions on human rights and legal matters will propose candidates, who then must be approved by three fifths of the parliament. Candidates must be Albanian citizens with human rights experience and a distinguished moral character, who have never been convicted of a crime.

"The legal foundation is good," Abrahams said. "But the ombudsman must also have the respect necessary to do effective work."

Human Rights Watch also called on the Albanian government to assist the future ombudsman in all possible ways. As soon as possible, an adequate budget and proper office space should be provided.

For further information contact:
Elizabeth Andersen in New York, (1-212)216-1265
Lotte Leicht in Brussels, (322) 732-20098