The candidature, which was initially put forward by Minister of Justice Sam Tanson, was accepted by the state council.

Joke Van der Stricht will start her new position on 1 February on a seven-year-contract. She will thereby replace Michel Lucius, who has occupied the position since 2016 and will now enter retirement.

Van der Stricht holds a Master's degree in criminology, which she completed in Brussels. She has been working at Schrassig prison since 2013 and has filled the role of vice-director since 2016.