LAHORE, Oct 10: The Punjab Ombudsperson and Vice President of the International Ombudsman Institute (IOI), Ms. Ayesha Hamid, chaired a high-level meeting and international conference in Lahore, held as part of the Asian Regional Meeting and International Conference 2025 of the IOI. The event positioned Pakistan, and particularly Punjab, at the center of a global dialogue on strengthening governance through ombudsman institutions.
Under Ms. Ayesha Hamid’s leadership, the conference attracted delegates from over a dozen countries including Japan, South Africa, Austria, Indonesia, Macao, Bahrain, and Azerbaijan. The sessions emphasized the ombudsman’s pivotal role in making the rule of law accessible and promoting transparency and accountability in public administration.
The conference, themed “Strengthening the Rule of Law through Ombudsman Institutions,” featured focused discussions on enhancing citizen access to justice and public trust in state institutions. Session I spotlighted the Ombudsman as a bridge between the government and the people, while Session II explored institutional mechanisms for ensuring accountability in governance.
Ms. Ayesha Hamid was widely praised for her leadership and vision in organizing the conference. Her role in bringing together diverse international voices, facilitating knowledge exchange, and highlighting the practical impact of ombudsman institutions was acknowledged in the closing remarks by IOI Secretary General Mr. Bernhard Achitz. He commended the Punjab Ombudsman Office for its exemplary organization and extended gratitude for Pakistan’s warm hospitality.
Beyond the formal sessions, delegates were introduced to Lahore’s vibrant culture through visits to historical landmarks and culinary hotspots. The cultural immersion underscored Pakistan’s rich heritage and the city’s role as a host for meaningful global collaboration.
The event concluded with a shared commitment among participants to continue strengthening ombudsman institutions worldwide, inspired by the strong leadership and organizational excellence demonstrated by Ms. Ayesha Hamid and the Punjab Ombudsman Office.
