Updated / Friday, 19 Jun 2026 14:56
Irish Refugee Council CEO Nick Henderson said the award reflected their commitment to ensuring dignity and fairness
The Irish Refugee Council has been named as the recipient of The Bar of Ireland's 2026 Human Rights Award.
The NGO has been recognised for its contribution "to the promotion and protection of the rights of refugees and people seeking international protection in Ireland".
The Bar of Ireland has commended the Refugee Council for demonstrating "exceptional leadership and commitment" in that regard.
It has also been rewarded for making a lasting contribution to human rights protection in the State by supporting individuals, and through its advocacy.
Chair of The Bar of Ireland Human Rights Committee, Simon Donagh BL, said the award was in recognition of the Irish Refugee Council's dual impact, "supporting individuals navigating often complex legal processes, while also contributing meaningfully to the development of a fair, rights-based protection system".
As Ireland begins implementing the EU Migration and Asylum Pact, the Chair of the Bar Council Seán Guerin SC said it was essential that the system "is grounded in fair procedures, robust legal safeguards and full access to legal representation at every stage".
"These are not optional; they are fundamental principles of justice," he said.
Pictured at the presentation were: Wendu Muperi, Communications Officer at the Irish Refugee Council; Seán Guerin SC, Chair of the Council of The Bar of Ireland; CEO of the Irish Refugee Council Nick Henderson and Simon Donagh BL, Chair of The Bar of Ireland Human Rights Committee
Irish Refugee Council CEO Nick Henderson said the organisation was honoured to receive the award.
"It reflects the resilience and strength of the people we support, and our shared commitment to ensuring that dignity, fairness and protection are central to Ireland’s response to those seeking refuge," he said.
"As the EU Migration and Asylum Pact comes into effect, we must ensure that these significant changes are implemented in a way that protects access to justice, provides clarity around legal advice and safeguards the rights of vulnerable individuals throughout the process."
The award will be formally presented at The Bar of Ireland’s annual Human Rights Conference tomorrow which is also World Refugee Day.
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