Tánaiste to launch Ireland’s thematic priorities for membership of the Human Rights Council

Tánaiste Simon Harris will say that an “anti-rights agenda” is on the rise but that Ireland will not be silent in face of these challenges as he launches the country’s campaign for membership of the Human Rights Council for the term 2027 – 2029.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade will host a high level event in New York today (Monday) to mark the start of Ireland’s campaign for the HRC. This event will launch five thematic priorities that will drive Ireland’s campaign and, if elected, future membership of the Council.

The Tánaiste will say that while we are facing “a crisis of confidence in the UN system” there has “never has there been a greater need for the international human rights system”.

He will also say: “Ireland will continue to be a friend, an advocate and a vigorous voice for those who defend human rights around the world.”

Speaking in advance of the event, the Tánaiste said: “Ireland has long been a champion of human rights and I am delighted that we are going forward again for election to the UN Human Rights Council.

“We are motivated by the need to protect and champion the multilateral system and human rights at a time when they are under great strain; to uphold the universality and indivisibility of human rights and the principle of non-discrimination; the need for accountability at the international level; and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“We will have five thematic priorities for our campaign, which will continue into our membership, if elected: to support civil society space and human rights defenders; to champion women’s rights and gender equality; to defend the rights of LGBTIQ+ persons; to call attention to the most basic right to adequate food; and, to bring a strong focus to the rights of persons with disabilities in conflict. Each of these themes can contribute to a better future, recognising the rights of children and youth in securing that future.

“The universal nature of human rights and the principle that every person is equally and inherently entitled to their rights, is the cornerstone of the international human rights regime. These core values and our priority themes will be at the heart of our campaign, and I hope, our term on the Human Rights Council if elected.”

The election for the Human Rights Council will be held in October 2026 and, if elected, Ireland’s three year term will begin in January 2027.

ENDS

Press Office

22 September 2025