The European Parliament’s Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs has endorsed Andrés Ritter as the next European Chief Prosecutor. During a vote held on Monday, 52 committee members supported Ritter’s appointment, while 10 opposed it and 6 abstained.
Ritter was among four candidates who took part in a question-and-answer session with Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) on December 3, 2025. Following this hearing, MEPs selected Ritter as their preferred candidate for the position.
Ritter has served as Deputy European Chief Prosecutor at the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) since November 2020. Before joining EPPO, he worked in various positions within Germany’s prosecution service.
The role of European Chief Prosecutor is filled through an agreement between the European Parliament and the Council. Both institutions have indicated preliminary support for Ritter’s candidacy. The final decision will be made following a plenary vote by the Parliament scheduled for March 2026.
Laura Codruța Kövesi is currently serving as Chief Prosecutor after her appointment in October 2019. Her seven-year term will conclude on October 31, 2026.
