During a European Parliament session, Greek MEP Freddy Beleris highlighted essential principles for the role of the new European Ombudsman. He emphasized the importance of upholding democracy, the rule of law, and human rights without compromise, particularly regarding candidate countries for EU membership. Beleris also warned against the pressures related to unchecked activism and the misuse of civil society narratives, stressing the need for the Ombudsman to act within their mandate. The parliamentary discussion comes ahead of the election for the new Ombudsman, who will begin duties in February 2025.