skarga

Skarga is a formal written complaint or grievance directed to a person or authority, alleging that rights have been violated or that an action, decision, or omission is improper. It is used to seek redress, review, or remedy, and can target public authorities, organizations, or individuals whose conduct the complainant regards as unlawful or unjust.

In practice, skarga is common in public administration and civil life in several Slavic-speaking countries. It may be submitted to internal supervisory bodies within an organization, to independent bodies such as an ombudsman, or to courts for external review. A skarga typically focuses on faults in procedure, violations of rights, or errors in applying law, and it may complement or precede other remedies such as an appeal. The formal alternatives and venues vary by country and administrative context.

Content and form are usually prescribed by the relevant rules. A typical skarga includes the complainant’s full name and contact information, a concise account of the facts, dates and documents, the legal or factual grounds for the complaint, evidence supporting the claims, and a clearly stated remedy or outcome sought. It is generally submitted in writing, although many authorities accept electronic submissions; deadlines and procedural requirements differ by jurisdiction.

Outcomes of a skarga can range from a review or reversal of a decision, a recommendation for procedural changes, compensation, or disciplinary or corrective actions. Even when not fully resolved, a skarga may prompt investigations, audits, or policy clarifications that improve transparency and accountability. See also odwołanie (appeal) and zażalenie (objection), as well as institutions such as the Rzecznik Praw Obywatelskich (Human Rights Ombudsman) in Poland.