Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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Ireland is seeking election to a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council in June 2020 for the 2021-2022 term. Ireland’s candidacy was announced in 2005.

The UN provides the foundation of an orderly, rules-based international system, which is essential for a small and globally trading country like Ireland. We have a responsibility to participate to the fullest extent possible in the work of the UN, and to champion its role and values.

Ireland is competing with Norway and Canada for one of two seats in what is likely to be a very tightly fought election. Both countries have, like Ireland, strong records of engagement at the UN. In order to be elected to the Security Council, Ireland will need to secure the support of two-thirds of the UN membership – approximately 129 votes of the 193 Member States.

The campaign leading up to 2020 is already well under way. While I cannot provide specific details on sensitive bilateral contacts which are being made in relation to Ireland’s Security Council candidature, I am using every opportunity to press the value of Ireland playing our role on the Council. In addition, my Department’s diplomatic staff in Ireland, our Permanent Representation to the UN in New York, and our entire Embassy network have been actively presenting our case and seeking support.

This week my Department is convening a Heads of Mission conference, which will see Ambassadors and senior diplomats from across our Mission network return to Dublin to discuss foreign policy priorities for the period ahead. The Security Council candidature will permeate all aspects of our discussions, setting the agenda for 2018 and beyond.

Ireland’s previous terms on the Security Council have provided an opportunity to give firm practical expression to the principles underlying Irish foreign policy, principles which are widely held across the Oireachtas. A strong and vigorous effort will be needed to secure election in 2020, and this is the objective of the campaign. Should we succeed, our election will allow Ireland to again bring our values of peace, justice and human rights to bear in directing the work of the Security Council.