UWE Award

2025

UWE award 2025

Mary Robinson (Ireland)

Mary Robinson is an Irish stateswoman, lawyer, and global advocate for human rights and climate justice. She served as the first female President of Ireland from 1990 to 1997, transforming the role into a platform for inclusivity, equality, and international engagement. Following her presidency, she became the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (1997-2002), where she played a key role in strengthening global human rights standards.

In later years, she has been a leading voice on climate justice, founding the Mary Robinson Foundation, Climate Justice and serving as Chair of The Elders, a group of global leaders working for peace and human rights. Throughout her career, Mary Robinson has been widely recognized for her commitment to social justice, gender equality, and ethical leadership on global challenges.