A key hearing was held in the public defender's institution for the deputy ombudsman candidate Maria Filipova, nominated by the "Active Consumers" Association. Among a total of three candidates, she outlined a comprehensive strategy for transforming institutional communication and protecting civil rights.
Filipova's professional experience as the Chair of the Consumer Protection Commission (CPC) allows her to identify critical areas with violated civil rights. Her main goal is to create a national telephone line that provides a direct communication channel between citizens and the executive branch.
Among the priority areas the candidate highlights are consumer rights in the non-banking financial sector. Filipova emphasizes the need to eliminate unequal contractual clauses, especially in quick loans, where cases of psychological harassment and unfounded threats have been established.
The expert emphasizes multiple problematic areas - from utility services like water supply and electricity to social challenges. She recommends a special focus on protecting vulnerable groups, specifically elderly people who are most severely affected by the lack of information and institutional support.
In the context of the upcoming euro introduction, Filipova plans large-scale information campaigns. The goal is to help citizens in the adaptation process by providing practical and accessible information about the new financial realities.
Among the candidate's key proposals is the creation of an Advisory Council involving trade union and employer organizations, tax and control institutions. This approach aims for more effective communication and coordination between different state structures.
Filipova emphasizes the importance of the ombudsman's right to monitor the quality of administrative acts. Her vision includes daily cooperation with civic organizations and maximum transparency of discussions.
Regarding sensitive topics such as the Istanbul Convention and domestic violence, she takes a balanced position, referring to existing national strategies and constitutional decisions.
Regarding equality, Filipova advocates the principle that professional qualities should be leading, not gender. She demonstrates readiness to perform official functions when necessary, emphasizing responsibility to the institution.
Among her specific recommendations are updating the lists of state lawyers and improving access to legal assistance for detained persons. Special attention will be paid to the rights of elderly people, including at the European level.
With a master's degree in law from the University of National and World Economy and extensive experience in state institutions, Maria Filipova emerges as a serious candidate for the deputy ombudsman position with a clear vision for modernizing the institution.