ORANJESTAD (AAN) – Aruba actively participated in the International Ombudsman Conference held from May 26–29, 2026, in Rome. The conference brought together ombudsman institutions, human rights experts, and public representatives worldwide to discuss the societal impacts of rapid social, technological, and democratic changes.
Key topics included the influence of digitalization and artificial intelligence (AI) on citizens’ lives, the protection of fundamental rights, and ensuring accessible, transparent, and citizen-focused public services. Ombudsman of Aruba, Jurima Bryson, emphasized the critical importance of international cooperation in maintaining human dignity and fundamental rights.
Participation allowed Aruba to strengthen its presence in the global ombudsman network, build connections with institutions across Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas, and enhance regional collaboration in the Caribbean and Latin America. The conference also highlighted youth engagement in democratic processes and social participation.
A key outcome, the Rome Declaration 2026, reaffirmed global ombudsman commitment to fundamental rights, institutional independence, and citizen-centered public service, with Aruba signing and endorsing the declaration. This engagement underscores Aruba’s commitment to international cooperation, good governance, and institutional strengthening.
