The Security Council
The Security Council is the primary UN organ for the maintenance of international peace and security. Ireland has been proud to serve as one of the 15 Members of the Security Council on three previous occasions: in 1962, 1981 – 1982 and 2001 - 2002. Ireland continues to engage actively as a non-Council member, participating in open debates and advocating for reform and increased transparency of the Council. Read Ireland's recent statements before the Security Council.
Ireland is seeking an elected seat on the UN Security Council for the 2021-2022 term. Our campaign is premised on three themes:
Empathy
Ireland has experienced colonisation, conflict and famine. This lived experience guides our actions and policies today at the UN.
Partnership
Partnership and international cooperation brought peace and prosperity to our island. Ireland will stand in partnership with those who need assistance, and give a voice to those who are not at the table. We are stronger acting together than we are acting alone.
Independence
Ireland is committed to listening to all parties. In the past, we have served on the Security Council honestly and openly. We bring no partisan agenda to the table.
Election to the Security Council for the 2021–2022 term would coincide with the centenary of the founding of the Irish State. The international outlook which propelled us toward UN membership decades ago remains undimmed today. We have always sought to be an active and fair member of the international community.
In July 2018, the Taoiseach and Tánaiste officially launched Ireland's campaign at UN headquarters with a special event showcasing Ireland's commitment to UN peacekeeping and sustainable development. The event was also a celebration of Irish food, music, heritage and culture. The launch was supported by former President of Ireland Mary Robinson and U2's Bono and was held on the UN's North Lawn, beside the 'Arrival' sculpture, by Irish artist John Behan, which was gifted to the UN by Ireland in 2000.