Recommendation CM/Rec(2012)11 on the role of public prosecutors outside the criminal justice system complements Recommendation Rec(2000)19 on the role of public prosecution in the criminal justice system which was adopted in autumn 2000. Together these two recommendations set European standards for prosecutorial activities with a comprehensive set of principles defining the status, powers and practice of the public prosecution service for all areas of law in a modern democratic State. Whatever the nature of their responsibilities, whether they be criminal, civil, administrative law or other, it behooves public prosecutors to carry them out in full accordance with the rule of law, human rights and other principles which are fundamental to all democratic societies. This recommendation draws upon a number of sources as well as on the practice of the prosecution services of many Council of Europe member States that enjoy extensive powers outside the criminal justice system. A
