Key Developments in Human Rights and Equality 2025-2026 provides an annual assessment of the most significant developments affecting human rights and equality in Ireland over the reporting period of September 2025 to August 2026. The report examines progress, stagnation, and emerging areas of concern across a range of issues, including equality and non-discrimination, the rule of law, socio-economic rights, racism, migration and asylum policy, and the rights of disabled people.
Published at a time of growing pressure on human rights and the rules-based international order, the report considers how international and European developments are shaping the domestic landscape, while highlighting areas where Ireland has made important progress and those where further action is urgently required. Drawing on IHREC’s monitoring, legal, policy and international reporting work, alongside findings from our annual public opinion poll, Key Developments 2025–2026 offers a clear assessment of the state of human rights and equality in Ireland and the priorities for the year ahead.