International Law
"Ireland accepts the generally recognised principles of international law as its rule of conduct in its relations with other States".
A commitment to the rule of international law is enshrined in the Constitution of Ireland and is one of the core principles of Irish foreign policy.
"Ireland accepts the generally recognised principles of international law as its rule of conduct in its relations with other States".
(Article 29.3 of the Constitution)
The Legal Division of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade represents Ireland in international legal proceedings and negotiates on Ireland’s behalf on international legal matters in international fora such as the:
- the European Court of Human Rights
- the International Court of Justice
- the Sixth Committee of the United Nations General Assembly
- the Assembly of States Parties of the International Criminal Court
- the bodies established under the UN Convention of the Law of the Sea and
- relevant Council of Europe and EU bodies.
We are also responsible for publication and registration of treaties to which Ireland is a party. Details of these treaties are available in the Irish Treaty Series on gov.ie.
We do not give legal advice to members of the public.