The Archbishop of Cologne is a senior ecclesiastical leader in the Roman Catholic Church, overseeing the Archdiocese of Cologne in Germany. This position is one of the most significant in the German Catholic hierarchy, with the archbishop playing a vital role in both religious and social matters within the region. The archbishop is also a member of the German Bishops' Conference, which addresses national church issues. Historically, the Archbishop of Cologne has held considerable influence, often participating in political affairs and serving as a key figure in the broader context of the Catholic Church in Europe.