ECPP fully supports Ms. McGuinness in her new role, urges the European Commission to equip her with the necessary mandate and resources, and prays for an effective and fruitful mission at a time when freedom of religion is increasingly under pressure worldwide.

ECPP President Valeriu Ghilețchi:

“Freedom of religion or belief is a fundamental human right, yet millions worldwide continue to face discrimination and persecution. The Special Envoy must be a strong and credible voice for those who suffer for their faith and a clear sign that the European Union is committed to defending human dignity, pluralism, and fundamental freedoms.”

Since the European elections in June 2024 and the installation of the new Commission in November 2024, the position of Special Envoy had remained vacant. While the Commission repeatedly affirmed its commitment to promoting freedom of religion or belief, the prolonged vacancy raised concerns about the priority given to this issue.

ECPP MEP Bert-Jan Ruissen:

“The post has been vacant for well over a year now. This gave the impression that religious freedom is not high on the European Commission’s list of priorities, even though there is much work to be done for this envoy worldwide. Consider, for example, the severe persecution of Christians in Nigeria and neighbouring countries, the current situation for minorities in Syria, or the anti-conversion laws in India and blasphemy laws in Pakistan. I would therefore like to ask Ms. McGuinness to get to work as soon as possible.”

Religious persecution remains widespread. According to Open Doors International, 388 million Christians worldwide experience high levels of persecution or discrimination for their faith, one in seven globally. Religious repression is often an early warning sign of instability and conflict, undermining democracy and the rule of law. The European Union itself recognised in its 2013 Guidelines on the Promotion and Protection of Freedom of Religion or Belief that safeguarding this right contributes to democracy, development, stability, and peaceful coexistence. ECPP therefore believes that addressing the persecution of people of faith worldwide warrants serious attention and effort from the European institutions, and an important aspect of foreign policy.

ECPP stresses that the effectiveness of the mandate will depend on proper funding, staffing, and institutional support. ECPP therefore calls on the European Commission to strengthen the mandate of the Special Envoy, provide sufficient resources given the scale of global challenges, ensure systematic implementation of the EU FoRB Guidelines, and make freedom of religion or belief a consistent priority in EU external relations.

Photo: © European Union 2024 – Source : EP