The highly anticipated establishment of the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) marks a new era for the EU's criminal justice system. The EPPO will investigate and prosecute crimes affecting the EU's financial interests. For the first time, binding decisions of the Union are adopted concerning individuals in the sensitive area of criminal law.

This working document argues that, assuming the "arch" is the EU's criminal justice system and the "other stones" are the national authorities, the EPPO has been entrusted with all the characteristics, capabilities, and qualities to be considered the "central stone" of the EU's criminal justice system. For this purpose, it examines the main provisions of the EPPO Regulatory Framework, focusing on its structure, functions, and material competence.

Additionally, it reviews its investigative and prosecutorial powers, the rights of suspects and accused persons, judicial review of EPPO acts, and its relationships with partners. This contribution acknowledges the challenges and offers answers to the following questions: 1. Why is the EPPO so controversial? 2. What challenges might it face? 3. Has the new entity lost its character by becoming too representative of the judicial structures of the member states? 4. Will the EPPO ultimately have added value?

The analysis concludes that, although the EPPO Regulatory Framework leaves much to be desired, the establishment of the EPPO will be a significant development for the institutional structure of the EU, despite unresolved issues and other challenges it will undoubtedly face.