Institution Building The ombudsperson office’s role in promoting reconciliation and building sustainable peace is perhaps best demonstrated by its department that deals with eliminating discrimination. This department received hundreds of complaints annually relating to various forms of discrimination on ethnic or religious grounds, and subsequently issued relevant recommendations to rectify discriminatory practices. By issuing individual and special reports and recommendations, the ombudsperson office contributed greatly to building trust in existing mechanisms for the protection of human rights and the rule of law. Its reports and recommendations drew the attention of authorities to applicable international and domestic human rights standards and practices, and urged them to take steps toward ensuring greater respect for human rights. 2. Unbiased broadcasting During a country’s transition toward democracy and a market economy after a violent conflict, the ethnic polarization and antagonism that pervaded society was reflected in the media landscape. In the immediate post-conflict period, many media outlets continued to exacerbate tensions, eroding inter-ethnic reconciliation and hampering the return of displaced persons and refugees. Among other members of the international community, the OSCE promoted communication between the different ethnically populated areas of the country. Key to this effort was access for all to balanced news and information, including to enhance informed 29