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Rules of Procedure

Adopted13th September 2001

Rule 1

These Rules of Procedure shall supplement the Law on the Human Rights Ombudsman of Bosnia and Herzegovina1 (the “Law”) and govern the operation of the institution of the Human Rights Om-budsman of Bosnia and Herzegovina (the “Institution”) in accordance with Article 36 of the Law.

Rule 2

The Institution has its main office in Sarajevo and additional offices in Banja Luka and Brčko.

Rule 3

A complaint to the Institution shall be submitted in writing and be signed by the complainant or a duly authorized representative of the complainant.

It shall include the name of the institution complained about and, if known, of the official or officials concerned.

It shall further include the grounds for the complaint including a description of relevant facts and events as well as information on related complaints or appeals to other authorities, including superior bodies, entity ombudsmen and international supervisory bodies.

It shall also include the contact address and telephone of the complainant and of the complainant’s representative, if any, as well as the complainant’s date of birth.

It shall be supplemented by copies of relevant documents.

Rule 4

The Institution provides complaint forms that could, but must not, be used. The staff of the Institution assists a complainant in drafting a complaint, if need be.

Rule 5

A complainant shall keep the Institution informed about developments and changes relevant to the complaint as well as address and telephone changes. Failure to submit such information might be considered as a wish not to pursue the complaint.

Rule 6

Without relevant new information, the Institution will normally not deal with a matter, already dealt with by the Institution, nor with a matter, being dealt with or already dealt with by an entity ombudsman.

Rule 7

The Institution will encourage an amicable solution with regard to a complaint, whenever appropriate.

Rule 8

During an investigation an Ombudsman may suggest other appropriate interim measures than the ones mentioned in Article 24 of the Law.

Rule 9

The working languages of the Institution are English and the languages of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Rule 10

Staff is recruited solely with regard to the requirements of the position in question.

Rule 11

The Institution issues ID cards for staff members, explaining the holder’s position and general authority under the Law. Authorization according to Article 37 para 3 of the Law is made in writing for each specific assignment.

Rule 12

Complaints before the Institution at the time of the adoption of these Rules of Procedure shall be dealt in accordance with these Rules.

Rule 13

These Rules of Procedure shall enter into force on the eighth day after their being published in the Official Gazette of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Sarajevo, 13 September 2001

Frank Orton

The Human Rights Ombudsman of Bosnia and Herzegovina