The Protector of Citizens (Serbian: Заштитник грађана, romanized: Zaštitnik građana), commonly referred to as Ombudsman (Serbian: Омбудсман) is an independent state authority in Serbia, responsible for investigating and addressing complaints made by citizens against other government institutions.
The Ombudsman has competence to oversee the work of government agencies, the bodies authorized for legal protection of property rights and interests of Serbia and other bodies and organizations, enterprises and institutions which have been delegated public authority.
State administration bodies are legally obliged to cooperate with the Ombudsman and to provide him access to their premises and all data in their possession, regardless of the degree of secrecy, when of interest to the investigation in process or the Ombudsman's preventive actions.
As a result of an investigation, the Ombudsman may recommend dismissal of an official considered responsible for violation of the rights of citizens, may initiate disciplinary procedures against public administration employees, and may require initiation of penal, offence or other adequate procedure.
The Ombudsman can also act preemptively, by offering advice and opinion on issues within his competence, to enhance the operation of the administration authorities and strengthen the protection of human liberties and rights.