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Independent Authority Est. 2004

We stand beside vulnerable social groups

The Rights Ombudsman is an independent authority that protects citizens' rights, holds public services accountable, and works to eliminate maladministration — with a special focus on those who need it most.

Who We Are & What We Do

For over two decades, we have been the bridge between citizens and the public administration — investigating, mediating, and resolving thousands of cases each year.

Mediation & Resolution

We intervene to resolve disputes between citizens and public services, proposing practical solutions and facilitating open communication. In 2024, we successfully resolved 1,247 mediation cases.

Information & Awareness

We provide accurate, up-to-date information on citizens' rights and obligations, and demystify the processes of public administration. Our helpline answered 8,930 calls last year.

Rights Protection

We defend fundamental rights and freedoms, ensuring equal treatment — especially for those in vulnerable groups. We filed 312 official recommendations to public bodies in 2024.

Focus Areas

We specialize in issues affecting specific vulnerable groups and thematic categories, providing targeted support where it's needed most.

Vulnerable Groups

We provide direct support to people with disabilities, the long-term unemployed, single-parent families, Roma communities, migrants, refugees, and others who need focused attention and advocacy.

Learn more

Thematic Categories

We address issues of taxation, housing, employment, insurance, education, public utility benefits, and other matters that directly impact citizens' everyday lives and well-being.

Discover the categories

Latest News & Interventions

Stay informed about our most recent announcements, interventions, and actions on behalf of citizens.

Education

New Recommendations for Inclusive Education of Vulnerable Groups

Published: March 14, 2025

Following a six-month investigation involving 23 schools, we issued a formal recommendation to the Ministry of Education calling for specialized support staff in classrooms with high numbers of vulnerable students.

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Accessibility

Intervention on Accessibility of Public Buildings for People with Disabilities

Published: February 28, 2025

Our audit of 14 municipal buildings found that 9 lacked compliant wheelchair access. We have demanded immediate corrective action and published our full findings for public review.

Read more
Health

Ensuring Medical Care Access for Uninsured Vulnerable Citizens

Published: February 10, 2025

In response to 47 complaints from uninsured citizens, we've initiated a formal review of hospital admission procedures, focusing on emergency care and chronic condition management.

Read more

How to Get Help & Useful Material

Find everything you need to understand your rights, submit a report, and access the resources we've prepared for citizens.

Citizens' Rights & Benefits Guide

Download our comprehensive 48-page guide covering social benefits, healthcare access, housing assistance, and employment rights. Updated for 2025, it's a vital resource for every citizen.

Download Guide (PDF, 2.4 MB)

Visit the Central Website

For a complete overview of all our activities, annual reports, and regional office locations, visit our main portal.

Go to rights-ombudsman.org

What Citizens Say

Your voice is our strength. Here's how we've helped fellow citizens navigate complex issues.

P.P.
Panagiotis Papadopoulos
Teacher, Thessaloniki
"After months of unresolved issues with social welfare regarding my mother's care allowance, the Ombudsman's team found a solution in just three weeks. Their support was decisive and immediate."
T.K.
Tasos Kiriakou
Electrician, Patras
"I had an issue with the employment agency over my unemployment benefits and didn't know where to turn. The Ombudsman's intervention was life-saving. Thank you so much!"
E.A.
Eleni Alexandrou
Graphic Designer, Athens
"As a person with a mobility impairment, I faced significant barriers accessing public services. The Ombudsman guided me through the process and effectively advocated on my behalf."

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to the most common questions about our services and how we operate.

You can submit your report electronically through the dedicated form on our website, by post to our central office address (Rights Ombudsman, 5 Sokratous Street, Athens 105 52), or in person at our central or regional offices by appointment. All submissions are treated confidentially.

We examine cases involving alleged violations of citizens' rights by public services, including issues of maladministration, discrimination, denial of access to public information, delay in processing applications, and failure to provide legally mandated services. We do not handle private disputes between individuals.

No. Our services are completely free of charge for all citizens. The Ombudsman is funded by the state budget to ensure independent, impartial oversight of public administration.

The average investigation takes between 2 and 4 months, depending on the complexity of the case and the responsiveness of the public body involved. For urgent cases, such as those involving imminent risk to health or safety, we prioritize and expedite the process.

Are you ready to make a difference?

If you've faced injustice from a public service, or if you want to report an issue affecting vulnerable groups, don't hesitate. We're here to listen, investigate, and act.