Emily Logan

Chief Commissioner Emily Logan, representing the commission, took office after being elected by ENNHRI members from across the continent in a ballot held in Athens last October.

Ms Logan will, on behalf of the commission, chair an incoming board made up of five other national institutions from Norway, Greece, Poland, Albania and Croatia.

She takes over from Lora Vidović, the Ombudswoman of Croatia, who will continue to serve on as an ENNHRI board member.

Ms Logan said: “It is a privilege to take on the chair of ENNHRI at a time of great challenge for human rights in Europe, where previously-held norms and standards are being undermined and challenged.

“Independent national human rights institutions (NHRIs) are required here in Ireland and across Europe to drive proactive change, to continuously foster a culture of human rights, and to ensure that we can robustly respond to protect human rights where they are under direct threat.

“Through this role, the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission can bring our experience and independence as Ireland’s national human rights institution to support and bolster European leadership on human rights.”