The Official Journal of the European Union has issued a call for proposals for the appointment of a new Ombudsman for the term 2009-2014. Diamandourus Nikiforos, the current ombudsman, could renew their charge.

According to European legislation, whereas the European Ombudsman is chosen from among persons who are Union citizens, have full civil  and political rights, offer every guarantee of independence, and meet the conditions required for the exercise  of the highest judicial office in the country or have the acknowledged competence and experience to  undertake the duties of the Ombudsman.

Applications for this position, which currently holds the Greek Nikiforos Diamandourus may be reported to the President of Parliament until 9 October, and must have the support of a minimum of forty Members of the European Parliament who are  citizens of at least two Member States.

Moreover, thew must provide all supporting documents needed to show conclusively that they fulfil the conditions required by the regulations and general conditions governing  the performance of the Ombudsman's duties and a solemn undertaking on the part of the candidate that,  if appointed, he/she will not engage in any other professional occupation, whether gainful or not, during  his/her term of office.