On 10 August 2026, Portuguese senior international executive Mr. Antero Lopes took office as Head of the European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX).

“I am honoured to assume my duties as Head of EULEX and to lead a Mission that has, for many years, served as a trusted and impartial partner to Kosovo’s rule of law institutions. EULEX diverse and competent team remains firmly committed to supporting an accountable and independent rule of law sector, which is essential for democratic governance, legal certainty, public confidence and lasting stability, to the benefit of all communities in Kosovo,” Lopes said.

“Working closely with Kosovo’s institutions, European Union partners, and the wider international community, I am committed to ensuring that the Mission continues to provide strategic advice, monitoring and operational support where mandated, while promoting institutional resilience, professionalism, integrity, full respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, and gender equality. A rule of law system that is independent, impartial and free from undue political influence is indispensable for safeguarding democratic institutions and advancing Kosovo’s European perspective. I look forward to engaging closely with our counterparts, listening to their priorities and working together to deliver tangible and sustainable progress that further strengthens the rule of law and contributes also to regional stability and security,” he concluded.

Antero Lopes draws on 40 years of national and international experience, including nearly three decades in senior leadership functions within the United Nations. Having served for about six years in Kosovo, he is well acquainted with Kosovo’s context, and brings extensive knowledge and practical experience in diplomacy, the rule of law, security sector governance, crisis management, mediation, and institutional reform.

Antero’s Lopes appointment runs until 14 June 2027. He succeeds Giovanni Pietro Barbano, an Italian Major General of the Italian Carabinieri who completed his term as Head of EULEX in June 2026.

EULEX was launched in 2008 as the largest civilian Mission under the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) of the European Union.