The EU has for the first time appointed a Special Envoy to protect and promote the Freedom of Religion or Belief outside the European Union.

It is a challenging commission given the growing hostility and persecution of religious communities  and those of non belief around the world today.

Former EU Commissioner, Ján Figel’  is leading the mission. CIFoRB caught up with him on a recent visit to London to discuss his mandate and how much influence he will really have outside the EU.