Nationale ombudsman
Summary
The Nationale ombudsman (National Ombudsman of the Netherlands) is constitutionally grounded in Article 78a of the Grondwet (added in 1999) and governed by the Wet Nationale ombudsman (1981). The Ombudsman is appointed by the Tweede Kamer (House of Representatives) for a six-year term, renewable once; the salary is fixed by law and the Tweede Kamer cannot casually dismiss the Ombudsman. The office investigates complaints from individuals and legal entities about the conduct of federal administrative bodies and of municipalities and provinces that have subscribed to the national scheme. Under the Act, the Ombudsman has a statutory right of access to all information and documents necessary for investigations. The Ombudsman may also conduct own-motion investigations and publish thematic reports. Annual activity reports are submitted to the States-General and made public. The budget is a legislative line item.
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
- Wet Nationale ombudsman
- Citation
- Wet Nationale ombudsman (Stb. 1981, 35); Grondwet Art. 78a
- Full text
- Full text of law →
Jurisdiction scope
Federal administrative bodies (ministries, agencies, public services) and local/provincial authorities that have joined the national scheme; investigates complaints from individuals and legal entities about government conduct; may conduct own-motion investigations