Ireland’s key role and presence in the human rights system

Ireland’s international engagement on human rights discussions enables us to reaffirm our commitment to the universality, indivisibility and interrelatedness of all human rights, to accountability for human rights violations and abuses, and to the protection of those who are most vulnerable and marginalised.

Human rights is at the heart of Ireland’s national policy and its respect and promotion continue to be a cornerstone of our foreign policy.

At the core of human rights lie the European Convention on Human Rights, a mainstay of human rights protection in Europe.

As a founding state, Ireland was amongst the first signatories to the Convention, all of whom are bound to protect specified rights and freedoms.

2024 marked the 75th anniversary of the Council of Europe, a milestone for one of Europe’s oldest international organisation.

During this period, Irish women and men have left an indelible mark with regards to Human Rights in Ireland and across the continent.

Judge Síofra O’Leary took up the role of president of the European Court of Human Rights on 1 November 2022.

She is the first woman and the first Irish person to serve as president of the court in its 63-year history.

Then-Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Coveney TD, congratulated President O’Leary at the time of her election, saying: “Judge O’Leary has served with great distinction since her appointment to the Court, and her election as President is a mark of the high regard in which she is held. It is a source of pride that the first female President of the Court should be an Irish judge.”

Having served as Director of the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights, Professor O’Flaherty was elected in January 2024 as the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights.

Minister of State for European Affairs, Peter Burke TD said: “The election of Michael O’Flaherty as Commissioner for Human Rights is a recognition by the Council of Europe membership of his high moral character and expertise in the field of human rights.

“His attachment to the values of the Council of Europe are undeniable and Ireland is proud to have supported his candidacy for the position.”

Overseeing the Council of Europe’s Social Charter, Professor Aoife Nolan is the president of the European Committee of Social Rights since 2023.

Professor Nolan has been a member of the Committee since 2017.

She has significant experience and extensive expertise in the field of economic and social rights, which have been a focus of her research and policy engagement activities throughout her academic career.