The contribution assesses the European Union (EU) Guidelines on the Promotion and Protection of Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) in its external action since their adoption in 2013. The guidelines aim to promote FoRB globally, emphasizing non-discrimination, interfaith dialogue, and human rights protection. However, their implementation has been weak, hindered by EU foreign policy fragmentation, lack of enforcement mechanisms, and inconsistencies in the EU's own approach to religious freedom. Key aspects of EU policy-making on religion include Article 17 of the Lisbon Treaty, which establishes dialogue between the EU and religious groups, and the creation of the EU Special Envoy on FoRB. The EU also engages in international initiatives like the Global Exchange on Religion and Society (GERIS). Despite these efforts, the guidelines face significant criticism, particularly regarding the lack of formal evaluation of their impact. The US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) has also pointed out internal EU restrictions on religious expression, questioning the EU's credibility. The contribution points out that while symbolically important, the guidelines remain ineffective without stronger enforcement and greater policy coherence. To fulfill its commitment to FoRB, the EU must strengthen implementation and align internal and external policies.