At the outset of a new year, we would like to express our will for and calling to public service to everyone who considers that our dealings with government agencies are useful.
The Ombudsman institution is specific to democracies as an independent institution, and completes the concepts of the social and democratic Rule of law on which the Spanish Nation is established.
Our democracy has met with recognition from foreign observers and scholars, and our peaceful Transition was and is valued for the joint effort, for the generosity in reaching agreements, and for its farsightedness. This fruitful period has allowed us to make great social advances.
All these achievements are values to preserve and to pass on, which does not mean that they are not open to improvement and reforms. Advanced democracies are political systems that allow reforms and adaptations without breakdowns, shocks or backtracking, as opposed to systems that prevent all kinds of changes and turn-taking in the use of power.
We want Spain to continue its progresses and advances throughout 2016, and in order for that to happen an atmosphere of stability is needed in all its institutions. What is more, concord and agreement between political forces will enable Spain to help solve or reduce humanitarian problems such as accepting refugees who are fleeing from war, longing for peace and for the rights that they lack.
Achieving peace in Syria, an objective of the United Nations Security Council, is imperative in order for a large majority of these people to be able to think of returning to their country. The Ombudsman institution is grateful for and acknowledges the work that institutions, NGOs and civil servants have done throughout the year to look after the people who arrived in Spain in dramatic circumstances.
