The ombudsman cannot rectify a violation or irregularity on behalf of the state body, local government body or holder of public authority concerned.

It is the obligation of the body that has committed the violation or irregularity to rectify it. Similarly, the ombudsman cannot deal with cases that are already before the courts, except in exceptional circumstances.

The ombudsman has no statutory powers in relation to the private sector and cannot intervene in cases where rights are violated by, for example, a private company. In such cases he can put pressure on the state bodies, local government bodies and holders of public authority responsible for supervising the work of the private company or individual.