The EU Special Envoy’s first 100 days highlight a universal right under growing pressure worldwide. They also raise a question closer to home: how open is the European Commission’s own dialogue with religious and belief communities?
Mairead McGuinness has marked her first 100 days as the European Union’s Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief outside the EU with a clear message: this right belongs to everyone. Her emphasis on listening, pluralism and equal protection comes at a critical moment internationally. It also offers Brussels an opportunity for reflection. Inside the European Commission, the Article 17 dialogue with religious and non-confessional organisations has been coordinated by the same official, Vincent Depaigne, since 2017. After almost nine years, questions over access, transparency and the concentration of practical gatekeeping power deserve serious attention.
…
…
Read full article here Europe and FoRB.
