“The EU has consistently affirmed its commitment to human rights as a central pillar of its external action. The mechanisms in place are in themselves very valuable but lack the focused authority and visibility required to address this crisis with the necessary vigour and consistency”, COMECE Bishops wrote to Ursula von der Leyen. “The gravity of the situation demands a more robust, dedicated, and institutionalized response. The EU, founded upon values of human dignity, freedom, and respect for human rights, bears a particular responsibility to champion these values beyond its borders”. The position of EU Special Envoy for the promotion of freedom of religion or belief outside the EU was established in 2016, the Bishops point out. “It has proven instrumental in advancing this cause on the global stage and has served as a crucial voice for the voiceless to defend the rights of persecuted religious communities. Having someone in this role enhances the EU’s capacity to monitor, report, and respond effectively to violations of religious freedom worldwide; and enables the EU to demonstrate a tangible commitment to protecting religious freedom as an integral part of its external human rights policy”.