Asian Ombudsman Association (AOA)

The Asian Ombudsman Association (AOA) was established on April 16, 1996 as a non-governmental, non-political, independent and professional forum for Ombudsmen in Asia. The idea to form the AOA surfaced in 1995, during the meeting of the Board of Directors of International Ombudsman Institute (IOI), where it was emphasized that Asia should organize a regional body for promoting the principles and practices of Ombudsmanship. Pakistan, supported by China took the initiative to establish the AOA and then Wafaqi Mohtasib (Ombudsman) of Pakistan, Justice Abdul Shakurul Salam, was elected as the first Chairman of the Board.

The AOA currently has 38 members from 22 countries and is governed by a Nine-member Board of Directors.

Objectives of the Asian Ombudsman Association

To promote the concepts of Ombudsmanship and to encourage its development in Asia.
To develop professionalism in discharging the functions of Ombudsman.
To encourage and support research and study regarding the institution of Ombudsman.
To sponsor training and educational programme for the institutions of Ombudsman in the region.
To provide scholarships, fellowships, grants and other types of financial support to individuals for study relating to the institution of the Ombudsman.
To collect, store, disseminate information and research data about the institution of Ombudsman.
To facilitate exchange of information and experiences among the Ombudsmen of the region.
To plan, arrange and supervise periodic conferences of the Ombudsmen of the Asian countries/regions.
To undertake such other matters necessary to further the above objectives of the Association.

AOA Management

Board of Directors

The AOA is governed by a nine-member Board of Directors, who are elected for a four-year term. The Ombudsman of Pakistan, Mr. Syed Tahir Shahbaz
is the President of the AOA and chairs the Board. Ms-Winnie Chiu Wai-Yin,
Ombudsman of Hong Kong , is the Secretary and Mr. Justice Naser Seraj, President, General Inspection Organization, Islamic Republic of Iran is the Treasurer.

The day to day operations are managed by the AOA Secretariat, which is based at Islamabad, Pakistan. The Secretariat is headed by Mr. Abdul Khaliq as the Executive Secretary supported by Mr. Aijaz Hussain Lone (Administrator).

General Assembly

The General Assembly of AOA comprises of Founding Members, Full Members and Associate Members of Asian Ombudsman Association. The General Assembly holds its meeting once in two years.