The European Union Council has appointed Latvian politician Ilze Brandes Kiris as the bloc's new special representative for human rights. The Council announced the decision in a statement. Brandes Kiris will represent the European Union's human rights position in its dealings with other countries and international organizations. Her duties will include raising European concerns with partner governments and working with international bodies on rights protection. The appointment gives a Latvian politician a prominent position in the bloc's external relations. The post sits within the EU's broader effort to make human rights part of its foreign policy.