Alapvető Jogok Biztosa
Summary
The Alapvető Jogok Biztosa (Commissioner for Fundamental Rights) is Hungary's national ombudsman, established under Art. 30 of the Fundamental Law (2011) and governed by Act CXI of 2011. The Commissioner is nominated by the President of the Republic and elected by a majority of the National Assembly for a six-year term, renewable once. Removal before the end of the term is possible for cause by a parliamentary vote. The Commissioner investigates violations of fundamental rights by public administration bodies, may initiate proceedings before the Constitutional Court, and submits annual reports to Parliament. Two deputy commissioners oversee the rights of future generations and the rights of national minorities respectively. The office also serves as Hungary's National Preventive Mechanism under the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture (OPCAT).
Independence Scorecard
| Appointment | Legislative appointment |
|---|---|
| Term length | 6 years |
| Removal standard | For cause only |
| Budget independence | Legislative line item |
| Subpoena power | No |
| Compel testimony | No |
| Records access | Full access |
| Public reports required | Yes |
| Pre-publication review | None — reports published directly |
Statute
- Name
- 2011. évi CXI. törvény az alapvető jogok biztosáról; Magyarország Alaptörvénye 30. cikk
- Citation
- Act CXI of 2011 on the Commissioner for Fundamental Rights; Fundamental Law of Hungary, Art. 30
Jurisdiction scope
Protection of fundamental rights guaranteed by the Fundamental Law; investigates violations by public administration bodies and recommends remedial action to Parliament.