Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 1 May 2024
75. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the international organisations that Ireland is currently considering or in the process of joining on the basis of full membership or otherwise, for example, observer membership; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19728/24]
View answerIreland has a long history of membership of and active participation in various international bodies and organisations.
Our membership of such bodies allows us to fully engage in a manner that allows us to use our voice to push for accountability, compliance with international law, observance of the rules based system and to express our views on issues of global importance.
With regard to the international organisations of which Ireland is currently considering membership, we are looking at full membership of the UN Human Rights Council as well as considering Dialogue Partnership Status of the Pacific Islands Forum.
While we currently actively engage with the UN Human Rights Council as an observer, we have publicly announced that we will seek election to it as a full member for the period 2027 - 2029. Ireland's election, if successful, to the Human Rights Council as a full member would allow us particular influence on this decision-making body and enhance Ireland's standing on the global stage.
