The European Court of Human Rights has chosen Michael O’Flaherty, the representative of Ireland, as the new Commissioner for Human Rights. This decision was made during the session held on January 24th. O’Flaherty gained the support of 104 out of the 211 participants in the ballot. He will be replacing Dunja Mijatović, whose term as the Council of Europe’s Commissioner for Human Rights ends on April 1st. The other candidates in the running for this position were Manfred Nowak, an Austrian human rights activist, and Meglena Kuneva, a Bulgarian politician and former European Commissioner.

This appointment marks an important development in the field of human rights. With his extensive experience and expertise, O’Flaherty is expected to bring about positive changes and further advancements in the protection of human rights. As a representative of Ireland, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to advocating for human rights issues both domestically and internationally. His appointment is a testament to the recognition of his tireless efforts and dedication to this cause.

As the Council of Europe’s Commissioner for Human Rights, O’Flaherty will hold a prominent role in ensuring the respect, promotion, and protection of human rights across 47 member states. This appointment comes at a crucial time when human rights violations continue to be a pressing concern globally. O’Flaherty’s leadership and strategic vision will be pivotal in addressing these challenges and working towards a more just and equitable world.

The selection process for the Commissioner for Human Rights involved thorough consideration of the candidates’ qualifications and abilities. O’Flaherty’s selection by a majority of the participants in the ballot reflects the confidence and trust placed in his capabilities to fulfill the responsibilities of this important position. His extensive knowledge in the field of human rights, combined with his diplomatic skills, make him a fitting choice for this role.

With the appointment of Michael O’Flaherty as the new Commissioner for Human Rights, the European Court of Human Rights is reinforcing its commitment to upholding human rights standards and promoting justice. O’Flaherty’s tenure as Commissioner will undoubtedly bring new perspectives and initiatives to address existing human rights challenges effectively. His efforts, together with the collective commitment of member states, will contribute towards achieving a safer and more rights-respecting world.