European Commission revives Special Envoy on freedom of religion or belief

The European Commission has announced that it will reappoint the Special Envoy for the promotion of freedom of religion or belief outside the EU. The term of the Envoy lapsed some weeks ago but, following mixed communications on the topic, Vice-President Margaritis Schinas has now confirmed the reappointment.

The mandate of the Special Envoy includes visits to countries with some of the most violent religious persecution in the world.

There has been robust support for the continuation of the mandate voiced by the European Parliament Intergroup on Freedom of Religion or Belief and Religious Tolerance, national special envoys, scholars, and civil society.

Adina Portaru, Legal Counsel for ADF International in Brussels welcomed the announcement, saying the EU has “done the right thing in showing renewed commitment to this fundamental human right”.

“We urge the European Commission to strengthen the position of the Special Envoy and build on the important work already achieved. For the mandate to be most effective it should be multi-annual and with a possibility of renewal. With the support of permanent staff and sufficient resources, the Special Envoy should act as a guardian of the EU Guidelines on the promotion of freedom of religion or belief. The victims on the ground are in dire need for a decisive response from the EU. With its Special Envoy, the EU can lead in the international response, and that leadership is needed now more than ever,” she added.