Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 December 2025
169. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the consideration given for Ireland to join the International Freedom of Religion or Belief Alliance; and the work that has been undertaken to secure the appointment of a Special Envoy for the Promotion of Freedom of Religion or Belief at the EU. [71637/25]
View answerThe right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion (more commonly referred to as freedom of religion or belief) is regarded as a fundamental freedom, provided for under Article 18 of both the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Convention on Civil and Political Rights.
The promotion of freedom of religion or belief is a priority for Ireland’s international human rights engagement.
We advance this freedom both in our multilateral and bilateral engagements. Most recently, at the UN General Assembly’s Third Committee in October, Ireland restated our concern for the persecution of people on the basis of their religion. In particular, we condemned all acts of hatred during the interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief.
Ireland is a member of the International Contact Group of Freedom of Religion or Belief and the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance. We continue to work within the EU to address the persecution of persons on the basis of their religion or belief. The current EU Action Plan for Human Rights and Democracy 2020 – 2024 (now extended to 2027) includes an express reference to stepping up action to combat discrimination on any ground, including religion or belief.
Ireland is not a member of the International Freedom of Religion or Belief Alliance though this is a matter we keep under active review. However, we are committed members of the related groups to which Ireland already belongs. Ireland has an unwavering and strong commitment to the promotion of freedom of religion or belief.
In regards to the Special Envoy for the Promotion of Freedom of Religion or Belief at the EU, this is a position which is filled by the European Commission. It is our understanding that the position has been without a representative since December 2024. We note that the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, has committed to filling the position and we look forward to working with the new Special Envoy once appointed.
