Ombudsman In Sweden and Denmark; A Comparative Study

Abstract

An ombudsman is an official, usually appointed by the government, who investigates complaints (usually lodged by private citizens) against businesses, financial institutions, or government departments or other public entities, and attempts to resolve the conflicts or concerns raised, either by mediation or by making recommendations. Ombudsmen may be called by different names in some countries, including titles such as a public advocate or national defender. Depending on the jurisdiction, an ombudsman's decision may or may not be legally binding. Even if not binding, the decision typically carries considerable weight. When appointed, the ombudsman is typically paid via levies and case fees. An ombudsman typically has a broad mandate that allows him or her to address overarching concerns in the public, and sometimes the private, sector.³