Credit: Ludovic Courtès, CC BY-SA 3.0

Yesterday’s launch event in New York comes after the government set out its “thematic priorities” in September.

The event took place at the UN alongside the “Drawing Hope” children’s art exhibition, which featured artwork by children from Ireland, the UK and six other countries.

Ireland’s HRC priorities include the promotion and protection of civil society space and human rights defenders, women’s rights and gender equality, the rights of LGBTIQ+ persons, the right to food and the rights of persons with disabilities in conflict.

Foreign affairs and trade minister Helen McEntee said: “Ireland is, and will continue to be, a consistent voice and committed partner for human rights.

“We must continue to strive to reach and support those furthest behind first, including the most vulnerable in times of conflict and crisis. For that reason we want to shine a spotlight on the right to food; and the rights of persons with disabilities in conflict situations.

“We will continue to be a consistent and committed supporter of the multilateral system and the United Nations. The UN is built on three equal pillars of peace and security; sustainable development; and human rights and we will work to ensure it remains so.

“Never has there been a greater need for the international human rights system. Ireland will continue to be a friend, an advocate and a vigorous voice for human rights, and for those who defend human rights around the world.”

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.