Government counteracts Michael D Higgins' remarks on the United States and Israel's involvement at the United Nations
In a recent development, President Michael D Higgins of Ireland has advocated for the exclusion of states practicing genocide or supporting genocide from the United Nations (UN). This proposal, though not the official Government policy, has sparked debate and raised questions about Ireland's stance on international issues.
The charter of the United Nations provides for the suspension or expulsion of states from the organisation, but no state has ever been expelled. In 1974, South Africa was suspended due to its apartheid policies. The current status of any such suspensions is not specified.
President Higgins's suggestion comes in response to the conclusions of genocide made in the report chaired by Navi Pillay. The specific details of the report are not provided in the given context.
The Government Press Secretary and Deputy Press Secretary have clarified that Ireland is committed to working through multilateral organisations. They also stated that the President's views on excluding states, such as the United States, are not the official Government policy.
Many people in Government have resented President Higgins's interventions, but have refrained from any criticism of the President in public. However, the Government has distanced itself from the President's remarks about the United States.
Meanwhile, the Irish government, through its public broadcaster RTÉ, has stated that Ireland will not participate in the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 if the United States is allowed to participate. This stance represents a more direct boycott threat compared to the President's actions or statements, as President Higgins has not publicly taken a position opposing the United States' participation.
It was previously a convention for the President not to express views in public that were in conflict with Government policy. However, President Higgins has occasionally deviated from this norm, especially in recent years on foreign policy matters.
The President's spokesperson clarified that the President's suggestion of exclusion is among the options that could be considered by the international community, in line with previous precedent. The Irish Government, however, has not yet made a statement regarding the ratification of the landmark UN high seas treaty.
The report chaired by Navi Pillay has concluded clear findings of genocide, but the specific details of the report are not provided in the given context. The context does not provide information about any ongoing trade relationships between Ireland and states accused of inflicting genocide.
This development marks a significant shift in Ireland's foreign policy discourse, with President Higgins taking a more assertive role in international affairs. The Government's response and future actions will be closely watched as this issue unfolds.
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