Chapter 8
Ombudsmen—200 years of service
Conclusion
Since it was first established 200 years ago in Sweden, the modern concept of an ombudsman office has become a worldwide phenomenon. It has been adopted by newly independent countries, countries as they move to democracy, and countries that have had a long tradition of stable government. The focus, role, responsibilities and effectiveness of the ombudsman offices vary, in line with the form of government and the specific characteristics of the country. Nevertheless, the growth in ombudsman offices, and the adoption of the concept in other areas of human endeavour such as the private sector, show that it has stood the test of time.
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