Ombudsman, << OM buhdz `muhn,` >> is a nonpartisan public official who investigates people’s complaints about government officials or agencies. Most of an ombudsman’s work involves complaints of unjust or harsh treatment of people by police, prosecuting attorneys, or judges, and such matters as housing, taxation, voting, or welfare payments. After investigating a complaint, the ombudsman may dismiss it or may seek correction of the problem–by persuasion, by publicity, or, occasionally, by recommending prosecution.
The idea of the ombudsman originated in Sweden in 1809. It has spread to Japan and to several European, Commonwealth, and newly independent countries. Hawaii has a comprehensive ombudsman plan, and other states and some United States cities have modified plans. The idea also has gained popularity in large organizations, including corporations and universities. The ombudsman’s growing popularity coincides with the increasing complexities of administration and with people’s need for impartial and informal handling of complaints.
