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Trócaire has welcomed Ireland winning a seat on the UN Security Council, saying Irish values of peace, human rights and international cooperation will be a lifeline for people living in conflict and insecurity around the world.
A cross section of Dhuyuleh IDP Camp, Somalia. Photo: Amunga Eshuchi
Ireland today won a vote to earn a temporary seat on the UN Security Council. Trócaire congratulated the Government and Department of Foreign Affairs on its successful campaign and urged them to use their new position to protect the human rights of the world’s poor and marginalised.
Trócaire CEO Caoimhe de Barra said:
“At a time when other governments are looking inward, we should be proud that Ireland continues to seek to have an impact on global issues. We are an outward-looking country, one that is proud of its values and which wants those values to shape the world in which we live.
“Ireland has for many years punched far above its weight diplomatically and this is yet another example of that. Around the world, we are known as a country that values human rights and peace. Ireland can play an incredibly positive role in bringing these values to the UN Security Council.
“Ireland’s campaign was built on a solid platform of promoting human rights, climate action, gender equality and humanitarian support. Our actions now – domestically and at the UN Security Council – must be firmly rooted in that platform. Ireland can and must be a strong voice for the rights of people living in poverty.
“The Programme for Government committed Ireland to increasing its overseas aid budget and taking stronger climate action measures. Both of these actions are fundamental to securing peace and prosperity around the world. Ireland winning a seat on the UN Security Council further highlights the need for the Government to follow through on its pledge to meet its international overseas aid spending commitments.
“Ireland will take its seat on the UN Security Council at a challenging time. The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened poverty and hunger in countries already struggling in the face of climate change and conflict. This, in turn, increases the risks of violence and displacement of vulnerable people.
“There is also the very real threat of the annexation of the West Bank. Ireland has been a strong and vocal defender of international law and the right of the Palestinian people to an independent state. Ireland’s voice at the UN Security Council will be crucial if the Israeli government follows through with its threat to annex more land that does not belong to it.”
