Foreign Affairs Committee to hear from Eamon Gilmore, EU Special Representative for Human Rights and EU Special Envoy for the Peace Process in Colombia

Mr Gilmore has served as EU Special Envoy for the Peace Process in Colombia since 2015. He previously served as Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs.

The tasks of the Special Representative for Human Rights are to enhance the effectiveness and visibility of EU human rights policy.  

 Speaking ahead of the meeting, Committee Cathaoirleach Deputy Charlie Flanagan said: “In November 2021, a series of commemoration events were held in Colombia to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the Peace Agreement and to discuss progress on its implementation.

“The Committee acknowledges the implementation of the Peace Agreement and the remarkable progress made in the last five years, whilst also acknowledging the challenges that remain.

“Challenges remain in implementation of the Peace Agreement, particularly in relation to the full implementation of the agreement’s gender and ethnic provisions and the protection of community leaders and human rights defenders, especially those from indigenous and Afro Colombian communities and in rural areas.”

“We look forward to discussing these and other issues in respect of his role as Special Envoy for Human Rights with Mr Gilmore.”

 Watch the committee live here.