Liam Herrick

The Policy Statement on Hate was launched at IHREC’s second annual conference, ‘Together Rising’, which took place at Croke Park.

IHREC is calling for a whole-of-government national strategy and action plan on hate, with a designated lead department, clear accountability mechanisms and independent monitoring.

Liam Herrick, chief commissioner of IHREC, said: “Hate is not an inevitable feature of Irish society. It is shaped by the choices we make as a society – by political rhetoric, by how we respond to discrimination, by how our institutions operate and by the environment we allow to develop online.

“What we are seeing now should concern every one of us. While intolerance and hate has always been a reality for members of minority communities, hate is measurably increasing and can be seen moving from online spaces into our communities. The climate of fear that this creates is undermining people’s ability to participate safely in public life. When people withdraw from public life because of threats, intimidation or abuse, our democracy is weakened.”

The Commission warns that hate is being fuelled by online incitement, misinformation and disinformation, including through the amplification of harmful content by online platforms. It also highlights the role of anti-rights actors in exploiting legitimate concerns about issues such as housing and pressure on public services to promote divisive and hateful narratives.

IHREC’s Annual Poll 2026 shows a significant decline in the proportion of people who believe there is equality in the enjoyment of human rights in Ireland. The poll also shows a sharp decline in the percentage believing efforts to tackle discrimination are effective, with only one in four people agreeing.

The Commission says this loss of confidence, alongside the growth of hate both online and offline, requires a sustained national response.

The Commission warns that anti-rights narratives are increasingly influencing mainstream political discourse, particularly around migration and gender. It says political parties must avoid being drawn into adopting anti-rights positions and should reject attempts to legitimise divisive narratives.

Mr Herrick said: “Ireland becoming a more intolerant society is not inevitable. What we need now is leadership to protect human rights, equality and democracy.”