President Catherine Connolly uses International Women’s Day to warn over war - We are WLR FM

President Catherine Connolly has used International Women’s Day to issue a strong warning about the consequences of war and violations of international law. In a statement marking the day, the President said the world cannot ignore what she described as “catastrophic consequences” arising from breaches of the United Nations Charter. Her comments come amid escalating conflict in the Middle East and growing international conflict.

“Deliberate Assaults on International Law”

President Connolly said recent events represent far more than political disagreements. “What we have witnessed in recent days in the Middle East, and beyond, are not political disputes,” she said. “They are deliberate assaults on international law, the international laws that have underpinned global peace for eighty years.” She warned that governments must acknowledge these violations openly and act to defend the global rules that protect peace and stability.

Ireland’s Role in Promoting Peace

The President said Ireland has a particular responsibility to speak clearly on issues of war and peace. She pointed to the country’s long-standing record of international peacekeeping and its commitment to disarmament and non-proliferation. Ireland has participated in United Nations peacekeeping missions since 1958, a record she said demonstrates how a small neutral state can influence international affairs when it acts with integrity.

Constitutional Commitment to Peace

President Connolly also highlighted Ireland’s constitutional commitment to peaceful relations between nations. She referenced Article 29 of the Constitution, which affirms Ireland’s devotion to peace, international justice and the peaceful settlement of disputes.