Defensoría

Defensoría refers to an ombudsman-like institution found in many Spanish-speaking countries. Its primary role is to protect and promote the fundamental rights and freedoms of citizens against potential abuses or neglect by public administration. These institutions are typically independent bodies, often established by a country's constitution or specific legislation, and are designed to be accessible to the general public.

The functions of a Defensoría can vary but generally include investigating complaints from individuals, mediating disputes between citizens and government agencies, and making recommendations to public authorities to rectify wrongs or improve administrative practices. They act as a bridge between the people and the state, aiming to ensure accountability and transparency in governance.

A Defensoría does not typically have the power to overturn government decisions but relies on its moral authority, public reporting, and the pressure it can exert on authorities to bring about change. Citizens can usually file complaints with a Defensoría free of charge, making it a vital recourse for those who feel their rights have been violated or that they have been treated unfairly by public bodies. The concept is rooted in the Scandinavian ombudsman model and has been adopted and adapted globally.