The European Parliament has taken a decisive step toward appointing a new head of the European Union’s prosecutorial body, with lawmakers backing Andrés Ritter as the next

European Chief Prosecutor.

On Monday, members of the European Parliament’s Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs voted to endorse Ritter’s nomination to lead the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO). The vote delivered a clear majority: 52 in favour, 10 against, and six abstentions.

The endorsement follows a competitive selection process. On 3 December 2025, four shortlisted candidates appeared before MEPs for a public question-and-answer session. After the hearings, committee members cast their preference votes, with Ritter emerging as the leading choice.

Background and next steps

Ritter has served as Deputy European Chief Prosecutor since November 2020, giving him hands-on experience at the heart of the EPPO’s work. Prior to joining the EU-level institution, he built a long career within Germany’s prosecution service, holding several senior roles.

Under EU rules, the European Chief Prosecutor is appointed by common agreement between the European Parliament and the Council. Both institutions have now signalled their preliminary support for Ritter’s candidacy.

The process is not yet complete. The European Parliament’s plenary is expected to hold a final vote on the appointment in March 2026.

Ritter would succeed Laura Codruța Kövesi, who became the EU’s first-ever European Chief Prosecutor in October 2019. Her seven-year term is set to conclude on 31 October 2026. Photo by Alf van Beem, Wikimedia commons.