Sinan Selen, currently vice-president of Germany's Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution, is set to become the agency's new head, succeeding Thomas Haldenwang.

His appointment follows a coalition agreement between the CDU/CSU and SPD, with the Federal Cabinet expected to formalize the decision around September 17, 2025.

Selen, a terrorism expert with extensive experience in security, has been recognized for his expertise despite facing criticism and conspiracy theories, including allegations of working for Turkey, which he has denied by renouncing his Turkish citizenship.

Selen's appointment is seen as a strong choice due to his expertise and extensive experience, with political figures praising it as an excellent personnel decision.

He will be the first non-German-born head of the agency, having been born in Istanbul in 1972 and moving to Germany at age four, marking a historic milestone.

His appointment comes amid increased threats from various extremisms—right-wing, left-wing, and Islamist—and a focus on countering espionage and sabotage from Russia.

The position was vacant since November 2024 when Haldenwang resigned to run for Bundestag, but he was not elected, and interim leadership was provided by Selen and Silke Willems.

He has publicly warned about Russian intelligence activities in Germany, including espionage, sabotage, cyberattacks, and influence operations.

Selen has been involved in high-profile security operations, such as protecting former Chancellor Gerhard Schröder and combating Islamist terrorism.

Selen's background includes roles at the Federal Criminal Police Office and brief private sector experience, with a focus on terrorism, cyber threats, and espionage, especially heightened since Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The decision was made by the coalition government, with plans for the Federal Cabinet to officially confirm the appointment in the coming days.

His appointment also signifies a historic milestone as the first agency head not born in Germany, highlighting the country's increasing diversity in leadership roles.