The 5^th International Conference of Ombuds Institutions for the Armed Forces (ICOAF) addressed the role of ombuds institutions in managing complaints related to veterans and gender issues.

The conference aimed to explore key challenges facing veterans, including how states define veterans, the correlation between definitions and access to benefits (such as healthcare), and the specific obstacles encountered by male and female veterans.

Additionally, the conference highlighted future issues and trends concerning veterans' welfare. The second panel focused on improving the effectiveness of ombuds institutions in addressing veterans' concerns.