Peter Roche (Galway East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

198. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the preparations he envisages for Ireland’s candidacy of the Human Rights Council for 2027-2029; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26855/25]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

On 4 May 2022, the Government approved the decision for Ireland to seek election to the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) for the 2027 – 2029 term, at elections to be held in October 2026.

As we approach the 70th Anniversary of Ireland’s membership of the United Nations (UN), our decision to seek membership of the HRC is a demonstration of our commitment to multilateralism, and to the broader ambition of the UN at this time of immense challenge. In a context of growing crises and conflicts, protecting and defending human rights is essential.

In advance of a formal campaign launch later this year, my officials are preparing our policy positions and thematic priorities for a robust campaign, in consultation with colleagues across Departments and civil society partners. I will bring these priorities to Government for information in the coming weeks. Our thematic priorities will inform the development of a campaign brochure and pledges to be announced as part of the campaign launch. I am proud of our continued, principled, human rights based approach to foreign policy, which along with the Sustainable Development Goals will closely inform our thematic priorities for our campaign and membership.

Our campaign will be designed with due consideration to the processes and coordination necessary for a successful election. This includes, but is not limited to, the putting in place of reciprocal agreements to ensure an adequate number of votes to secure our election, the forecasting of an adequate budget to underpin the campaign, and cross-departmental systems and processes to coordinate a successful campaign.

The HRC comprises 47 members who are elected by the UN General Assembly. Membership is based on equitable geographical distribution and members are elected initially for a three-year term. For the 2027 – 2029 term, Ireland and Germany are currently the only declared candidates for the two available WEOG seats.