Statement by President Connolly on U.N. Human Rights Day 2025
Date: Wed 10th Dec, 2025 | 17:09
Today, on United Nations Human Rights Day, we reflect on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and its enduring guidance for our shared life.
This year’s theme, Our Everyday Essentials, reminds us all that equality, justice and dignity shape peaceful and compassionate societies each day.
We cannot ignore the realities of our world in 2025. Across the globe, the devastating consequences of war, conflict and displacement persist, inequality continues to deepen, the scourge of gender-based violence endures, and our planet strains under destructive and extractive practices.
Here in Ireland, too many people who are homeless, disabled, discriminated on the grounds of their sexuality, race, ethnicity, religion or skin colour continue to endure exclusion. Their experiences reveal where our collective care still falls short.
Yet hope remains strong. Human rights remain the thread that binds us together in times of uncertainty and instability, affirming the inherent worth and dignity of every individual. Such compassion, expressed through inclusive policies and everyday solidarity, can transform lives.
Indeed, the true measure of our republic lies in the dignity experienced by all who call Ireland home.
Ireland has long championed human rights as a committed Member State of the United Nations.
On this UN Human Rights Day, let us renew our commitment to the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights — our everyday essentials — as we work to build a fairer, kinder, and more inclusive Ireland, and stand with all peoples striving for the achievement of their human rights across the world.