site.btaForum in Sofia Launches Informal Network of Balkan Ombudsmen

November 19 (BTA) - National Ombudsman Maya Manolova
Monday opened a forum here that marked the launch of an informal
 network for cooperation between ombudsmen from Balkan
countries. Public defenders from 12 Balkan states are taking
part in the event, which focuses on human rights protection in
the context of Balkan ombudsmen's cooperation.

Manolova said that the network will allow a fast communication
channel between ombudsmen, exchange of good practices, and quick
 and efficient solution of cross-border cases of human rights
violations. She also said that ombudsmen are often pressured,
and the informal network will provide solidarity and support to
Balkan public defenders.

Manolova told journalists that the democratic space in Europe
has been shrinking, and this requires joint actions. "We Balkan
peoples can give our contribution to human rights protection,"
she said.

The forum is expected to adopt a Sofia Declaration of
Cooperation.

RY/DS