Ombudspersons

The Ombudsperson – or, in GYA’s case, the Ombudsperson team – is an initiative to ensure fairness, promote transparency, and provide effective conflict resolution within GYA. As an international organization, the GYA acknowledges its members’ diverse backgrounds and perspectives and the importance of resolving disputes and addressing concerns fairly and equitably.  

The primary role of the Ombudsperson Team is to act as a neutral and confidential resource for the entire GYA family, providing a safe space for discussions, offering guidance, and assisting in resolving conflicts or disputes. Whether one is facing challenges related to organizational policies, interpersonal conflicts, or other issues affecting one’s involvement within the organization, the Ombudsperson Team will listen, provide support, and facilitate resolution processes. The Ombudsperson Team may seek additional or external members if required, approved by EC. 

It must be noted that the Ombudsperson Team can initiate its activities only after an official complaint has taken place.  

The Ombudsperson Team follows the procedures of the Code of Professional Conduct. We suggest all GYA Members, Alumni and Officers familiarize themselves with the processes. 

Key responsibilities of the Ombudsperson Team include:  

• Providing confidential and impartial assistance to members seeking guidance or resolution regarding any matter within the organization.  

• Conducting independent investigations into complaints, grievances, or conflicts, while maintaining utmost confidentiality. 
• Facilitating communication and fostering dialogue between parties involved in disputes, with the goal of reaching mutually satisfactory outcomes.  
• Offering information and resources to help members understand their rights, responsibilities, and organizational policies and procedures.  
• Advocating for fair and just practices and recommending systemic improvements to enhance the overall organizational culture.  

The Ombudsperson Team is NOT:  

• An administrative or managerial body: While the Ombudsperson Team operates within the organizational structure, it is independent of any hierarchical or managerial influence. Its purpose is to provide members a safe and confidential space to discuss concerns and seek impartial guidance. While the Ombudsperson Team serves as an additional resource for conflict resolution, it does not replace or supersede other established channels or decision-making bodies within the organization. The Ombudsperson Team does not make binding decisions or enforce resolutions.  
• A disciplinary or auditing unit: The Ombudsperson Team does not have the authority to conduct formal audits or impose disciplinary actions. Its role is to facilitate informal resolution processes and to offer recommendations for addressing concerns, ensuring fairness and justice within the organization.  
• A legal or advocacy service: Although the Ombudsperson Team may provide information on organizational policies and procedures, it does not serve as legal counsel or advocate for any individual or party involved in a dispute. Instead, it focuses on assisting in conflict resolution through dialogue, mediation, and the exploration of potential solutions.  

Every GYA member is invited to utilize the services the Ombudsperson Team provides whenever they have concerns or require guidance related to the GYA Professional Code of Conduct. Rest assured that inquiries will be treated with the required confidentiality and discretion. To reach the Ombudsperson Team, email the team at: