Statement by Minister Richmond at the High-level segment of the 58th session of the Human Rights Council

Statement by Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora Neale Richmond

High-level segment of the 58th session of the Human Rights Council

Geneva, 25 February 2025

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Mr President,

It is a privilege to address the Human Rights Council at the opening of its 58th Session.

It is 70 years since Ireland joined the United Nations.

Then, like now, we did not take our role as a UN Member State lightly but made a firm commitment to the multilateral rule-based order and to the UN Charter.

A few short months ago, all states here pledged a new beginning to multilateralism by signing the Pact for the Future, and committing to human rights as an integral pillar of the UN System.

As we convene for this new session of the Human Rights Council, we also restate our commitment to this Council – the primary UN human rights body.

Our presence here this week is a show of unity in the face of division, of support to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights; to international law, and to upholding, promoting, and defending human rights.

In times of crisis, like those we face today, it is difficult not to lean into division and distrust. However, it is also in these moments that we can, and must, stand secure in our commitment to the principles of interrelated, interdependent, and indivisible human rights.

Today, like 70 years ago, I restate Ireland’s commitment to a rules-based international order and to a constant, persevering, dedication to peace.

Mr President,

This week three years ago, Russia made clear its disdain for the UN Charter and international human rights law.

The Commission of Inquiry established by this Council has found that violations of human rights and international humanitarian law, as well as war crimes, have been committed in the context of Russia’s brutal war of aggression against Ukraine.

The international community must continue to condemn such actions and ensure that perpetrators of human rights violations and abuses are held to account.

Ireland will continue to call for an end to Russia’s war of aggression and violations of international law, and for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine, based on the UN Charter and with respect for Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

Last week marked 500 days since the brutal attacks perpetrated by Hamas and other terrorist organisations on Israel.

Ireland unreservedly condemns these attacks and the taking of hostages.

Last month, we welcomed the long-awaited ceasefire and hostage release agreement in Gaza.

This brought much-needed hope and relief to the people of Israel and Palestine.

We need to see the agreement fully implemented, in all its phases, including the release of all hostages.

There must also be continuing entry of humanitarian aid at scale, the provision of basic services and a framework for the return of those displaced from their homes within Gaza.

We must also remain focused on the deteriorating situation in the West Bank.

Ultimately, implementation of the two State solution remains the only way to ensure lasting peace and security for Israelis and Palestinians.

In Sudan, the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces - and their allied movements and militias – have shown utter disregard for human rights. They must comply with their obligations to protect civilians, humanitarian workers and human rights defenders from harm and allow rapid und unimpeded humanitarian relief to all areas under their control.

In Yemen, attacks against civilians by all parties to the conflict should be independently investigated, to ensure accountability and enhance the protection of Yemeni civilians.

In Afghanistan, the High Commissioner has determined that systematic gender persecution is being perpetrated by the Taliban. The Taliban must revoke all discriminatory decrees, and all other measures that seek to eradicate women and girls’ access to education, work and public services, and that restrict their freedom of movement.

Mr President,

Ireland is firmly committed to protecting and advancing both civil and political, and economic, social and cultural rights. In recent years, the Human Rights Council has addressed the human rights implications of climate change. We have discussed how to enhance global protection against business-related human rights abuses; advocated for a human rights based approach to new and emerging technologies; promoted gender equality, and advanced guidance on the elimination of all forms of racial discrimination and the prevention of violence and discrimination against LGBTI+ persons.

A crucial component of this process is the constant open engagement with our civil society partners. We have, and must continue to advance protections for civil society and for human rights defenders.

Mr President,

This Council must be enabled to fulfil its role as the primary inter-governmental body for the promotion and protection of human rights globally.

The Office of the High Commissioner must be adequately resourced and empowered to carry out its vital work.

The guidance and recommendations of Special Procedures and of the Treaty Body Committees must be heeded.

Respect for human rights is where our values and interests align. It is through more respect for human rights that we achieve peace, prosperity and sustainable development.

Mr President,

Ireland is seeking membership of the Human Rights Council for the term 2027-2029. If elected, we will protect and champion the universality of human rights and the principle of non-discrimination. We will be an advocate for prevention and for accountability. And we will work in partnership and good faith with all who share our commitment to multilateralism and the values and principles set out in the UN Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Thank you.