Category Archives: International Religious Freedom


COMECE supports an ambitious and coherent human rights’ policy based on the transcendent dignity of every human being.
While embracing the vision that the fundamental and inalienable right to religious freedom is the cornerstone of all human rights, it supports the view that EU decision-makers and officers should pay special attention to this fundamental right, in particular in its external relations.
To promote religious freedom and more generally, peace, justice and liberty, COMECE is also involved in ecumenical, intercultural and interreligious dialogues.
EU External Affairs, International Religious Freedom, Policy Areas, Press

Press Release

COMECE President mourns Gaza Church attack amid Ukraine solidarity visit

Mgr. Mariano Crociata, President of the Commission of the Bishops’ Conferences of the European Union (COMECE), expresses deep emotion and grave concern at the news of the recent attack on the only Catholic Church in the Gaza Strip, which occurred today, Thursday 17 July 2025. The news reached Mgr. Crociata while he is in Ukraine for a three-day visit to express solidarity with the Ukrainian … Continue reading »

International Religious Freedom, Policy Areas, Press

Press Release

COMECE President calls for long-term peacebuilding in Syria: “Christians are an essential part of the country”

H.E. Mgr. Mariano Crociata, President of the Commission of the Bishops’ Conferences of the European Union (COMECE), issued a statement on Wednesday, 19 February 2025, expressing deep concern for the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Syria, which persists more than a decade after the outbreak of conflict. Mgr. Crociata: “Christians communities are an integral and essential part of the history and culture of the region for … Continue reading »

International Religious Freedom, Justice & Fundamental Rights, Policy Areas, Press

News

Christian leaders and MEPs unite for Christmas Prayer Breakfast at the European Parliament

The Commission of the Bishops’ Conferences of the European Union (COMECE) participated in the Christmas Prayer Breakfast held at the European Parliament, Strasbourg, on Tuesday, 17 December 2024. COMECE General Secretary, Fr. Manuel Barrios Prieto, together with leaders of other Christian Churches, celebrated an ecumenical prayer, praying for peace in the world and for persecuted Christians. Read Prayer | Photos The Prayer Breakfast was organised … Continue reading »

EU External Affairs, International Religious Freedom, Policy Areas, Press

Press Release

COMECE advocates for peaceful transition in Syria

“The bishops of the European Union are closely monitoring developments in Syria and express their hope for an orderly and peaceful transition of power. COMECE urges the new regime to reject sectarianism and extremism while embracing the contributions and unique identities of the many ethnic and religious minorities that enrich the Middle Eastern nation. Furthermore, they call for the protection of religious temples and sites … Continue reading »

International Religious Freedom, Policy Areas, Press

Press Release

COMECE regrets conversion of Church of Saint Savior in Chora into a mosque: “Another major blow to Interreligious Dialogue”

The Commission of the Bishops’ Conferences of the European Union (COMECE) commented on Thursday, 23 May 2024, regarding the recent implentation of the decision by Turkish authorities to transform the Church of Saint Savior in Chora into a mosque. “This step further dilutes the historical roots of the Christian presence in the country. Any interreligious dialogue initiative promoted by Turkish authorities loses credibility”. Four years … Continue reading »

International Religious Freedom, Policy Areas, Press

Press Release

EP Resolution on attacks against Christians in Nigeria: COMECE highlights Religious dimension

COMECE welcomes the resolution of the European Parliament adopted on Thursday, 8 February 2024, condemning recent attacks against Christians in Nigeria. COMECE: “The resolution, however, downplays the religious dimension of the conflict”. The Resolution adopted by the European Parliament condemns the massacre committed on 23-25 December 2023, when gunmen launched a large-scale attack in more than 160 villages in the Bokkos, Barkin Ladi, and Magu … Continue reading »