On the United Nations International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief, ECR MEPs Bert-Jan Ruissen and Carlo Fidanza called on the European Commission to promptly reappoint the EU Special Envoy for promoting freedom of religion or belief outside the EU, a role unfilled since December 2024.
Bert-Jan Ruissen stated: “This day calls for reflection and action. The Commission must urgently appoint the EU Special Envoy and ensure all cooperation agreements with third countries depend on their commitment to respecting freedom of belief.”
Carlo Fidanza remarked: “Today, we remember those persecuted, often killed, for their faith. Worldwide, millions, many of them Christians, suffer violations, execution, or murder for opposing political totalitarianism, religious nationalism, or Islamist extremism.”
Despite a commitment from Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on 5 May 2025 to renew the position, Bert-Jan Ruissen criticized the delay: “We welcome President von der Leyen’s commitment, but concrete action is needed. The longer this position is vacant, the more the EU’s credibility suffers in supporting freedom of belief.”
Carlo Fidanza concluded: “Each day without a Special Envoy is a missed chance to defend those suffering for their faith. Europe must demonstrate it takes its promises seriously—words are not enough.”
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