Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 24 June 2021
275. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent to which he can motivate the international community towards addressing human rights abuses, trafficking in women and children, suppression of individual rights and entitlement and unlawful detention with a view to ensuring that the existence of sufficient deterrence to discourage such abuses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34205/21]
View answer291. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the efforts being made nationally and through the aegis of the EU and UN in respect of the citizens of various countries who have been detained, in many cases on spurious grounds, and continue to be kept against their will encompassing the suppression of basic human rights; if the perpetrators of such abuses are likely to be referred to the European Courts of Justice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34221/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 275 and 291 together.
At the outset, I refer the Deputy to my separate response to his question in relation to human trafficking (see PQ 34200/21).
In regards to unlawful detention, I regret that the trends are not positive. The detention of political opponents, demonstrators and journalists is a growing concern. I, and my officials, regularly raise human rights issues in bilateral dialogue with a wide range of countries, including the issue of unlawful detention where relevant.
Ireland is also a strong contributor to European Union and United Nations efforts to address unlawful detentions and in particular to protect Human Rights Defenders.
The United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention has a mandate to investigate allegations of individuals being deprived of their liberty in an arbitrary way or inconsistently with international human rights standards, and to recommend remedies such as release from detention and compensation. The Working Group held its 90th session from 3 to 12 May 2021 during which it adopted 21 opinions concerning deprivation of liberty of 68 individuals in 21 countries.
Ireland regularly intervenes at the Human Rights Council and other relevant UN bodies to urge an end to unlawful detention. UN Special Rapporteurs have issued a number of statements in relation to individual cases and Ireland works closely with them, particularly with Ms. Mary Lawlor, the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Defenders.
The European Union Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy (2020-24) provides a framework for the EU to leverage influence on broader human rights issues including unlawful detention. Ireland participates actively in EU Human Rights Dialogues with third countries and in multilateral fora.
Finally, in February of this year Ireland joined a newly established coalition of 63 countries, led by Canada, to endorse a Declaration Against Arbitrary Detention in State to State Relations. The Declaration aims to protect citizens of all countries from arbitrary detention abroad through coordinated action to uphold core human rights principles.
