Ombudsperson Schwetz: Clear communication is the key to good administration

During the discussion of the Ombudsman Board's Annual Report 2024 in the National Council, outgoing Ombudsperson Elisabeth Schwetz made a recommendation to the authorities: "The key to good administration lies in communicating with people." Communication must take place at eye level. "Authorities must also act as translators of the legal standards that form the basis of their work and speak with citizens," said Ombudsperson Schwetz.

She had already tried to convey this approach to her employees as head of the district authority. "Customers in day-to-day business can look for another business if they are not satisfied with the service. As a rule, customers of administrative authorities must remain customers of the respective authority, because there are factual and local responsibilities," Schwetz continues. Where this has fallen short, the AOB has also often taken on this translation function, the Ombudsperson concluded: "The trust of the people who turn to the AOB means a great responsibility, which I am very happy to have taken on."


Translation was AI-generated

People's Advocate Schwetz - middle-aged woman with chin-length dark blonde hair. She is wearing a black blouse.