Introduction

The Ombudsman recognises the important role that the media play in informing public opinion, enriching debate, and in increasing the visibility of his services in all the EU Member States. A pro-active media policy constitutes a central component of his activities and of his efforts to promote respect for rights under EU law and to improve the quality of administration.

For further information about the Ombudsman's media activities, please contact: Ms Gundi Gadesmann, Media and External Relations Officer, Tel. +32 2 284 26 09.

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Press releases

22 May 2012: Ombudsman calls on Commission to rectify deficiencies in Vienna airport investigation

The European Ombudsman, P. Nikiforos Diamandouros, has called on the European Commission to correct deficiencies in its investigation of complaints against Austria concerning Vienna airport. This follows complaints from 27 Austrian citizens' organisations concerning the absence of an environmental impact assessment (EIA) for several airport extensions. During his own investigation, the Ombudsman repeatedly pointed to problems with the EIA, which was eventually carried out retrospectively, including a potential conflict of interest involving the Austrian authorities. Since the Commission failed to act on the Ombudsman's findings, he decided to submit a Special Report to the European Parliament.

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23 April 2012: Ombudsman event: European citizens can tweet their live questions to Barroso, Schulz, Thorning-Schmidt
17 April 2012: Ombudsman investigates whether the Commission should do more to combat increased bee mortality
All press releases...