Lawyers criticize draft amendment on the Federal Prosecutor's Office as a threat to parliamentary oversight

Martin Kreutner, who has many years of experience in international anti-corruption work, is also among the signatories. He points out that an independent prosecution service is a central pillar of the rule of law. Political interference in ongoing proceedings could undermine this foundation.

Demands of the signatories

The critics call for a fundamental revision of the draft. They see in particular the separation of powers in jeopardy if parliamentary bodies were able to access details of individual proceedings. This would shift the balance between oversight and independence.

The Federal Prosecutor's Office amendment is currently in the consultation phase, in which various institutions and experts can comment on the draft. Within the consultation period, amendment proposals can be submitted. Only afterwards will parliament decide on the amendment.

Status of the legislative process

The commission that deals with questions of corruption prevention and the strengthening of democratic institutions had likewise identified a need for reform in earlier statements. It stresses that any change to the Federal Prosecutor's Office must be consistent with international standards. It too views the current draft critically.

Supporters of the amendment argue, by contrast, that stronger parliamentary supervision can strengthen confidence in the judiciary. They point to cases in other European countries where balanced oversight has led to greater transparency. Whether these arguments will be heard in the further legislative process remains to be seen.

European context

The debate comes at a time when the independence of the judiciary is being discussed across Europe. Various EU states face the challenge of recalibrating their prosecution services between political accountability and professional autonomy. The Austrian draft is therefore being watched closely beyond the country's borders as well.

With the lawyers' open letter, the discussion gains new urgency. Should parliament adopt the draft in its current form, the legal dispute over it is likely to continue. The signatories announced that they would also bring their concerns into the further political process.