Know your rights
EU citizens have the right to refer to the European Ombudsman in cases of maladministration in the activities of the institutions, bodies, offices or agencies of the Union, with the exception of the Court of Justice of the European Union acting in its judicial role.
This right is enshrined in article 43 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights.
What to do if your rights have been breached
The authorities of EU countries are bound to comply with the Charter of fundamental rights only when implementing EU law. Fundamental rights are protected by your country's constitution.
Addressing your complaint to the relevant national authority, government, national courts or a specialised human rights body.
What the Commission is doing to protect your rights
Law
Articles 20, 24 and 228 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU).
Decision 2005/46/EC of the European Parliament of 11 January 2005 appointing the European Ombudsman.
Related rights
Chapter 5 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights is on citizens' rights. This chapter also contains the following rights
- right to vote and to stand as a candidate at elections to the European Parliament
- right to vote and to stand as a candidate at municipal elections
- right to good administration
- right of access to documents
- european ombudsman
- right to petition
- freedom of movement and of residence
- diplomatic and consular protection