Dr. Chris O'Connell:

Absolutely. Speaking about the binding treaty in particular, next week we will go to Geneva to attend the 11th session of the binding treaty based on the original human rights Council resolution in 2014. The EU has, on a rolling annual basis, put out signals that it will have a negotiating mandate and come to the table in good faith, but it has not done so and will not do so again this year. The feeling is that the EU is not interested or is only interested in limiting this process. We would like to see the EU come with a negotiating mandate but also with a clear and progressive position that actually addresses the human rights violations, the environmental abuses, and the destruction and the pollution of the atmosphere that is occurring in Guatemala and so many other places around the world. It would be positive if Ireland, during its Presidency, could make that a priority area. This process is heading towards an end, likely in 2027. We need UN member states that are prepared to put their hands up and say they care about human rights and the environment and believe in this treaty process. If Ireland in its Presidency, as well as unilaterally, were to send those signals and make that a priority, that would be extremely positive.