Stylianides will put in place measures to target de-radicalisation and prevention of extremism on grounds of religion or belief in third countries. In cooperation with authorities from third countries, he will promote religious diversity and tolerance within educational programmes and curricula.

The appointment of Stylianides comes after the departure of Slovakian national Ján Figel in 2019. After two years of deliberation, there is a new Special Envoy.

“I deeply thank the College of Commissioners for appointing me Special Envoy for the promotion of freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) outside the EU. I accept this appointment with a full understanding of the importance of this role.”, Christos Stylianides noted, according to Cypriotic news site In Cyprus.