Former president Mrs Mary Robinson is likely to retain a prominent role in the field of international human rights despite her decision not to seek a second term as the principal UN official in that area.
Mrs Robinson caused widespread surprise when she announced in Geneva yesterday that she was stepping down as UN High Commissioner for Human Rights when her first four-year term ends in September. Informed sources believe she would have secured a second term without difficulty.
She revealed her decision at the beginning of the annual six-week session of the Commission on Human Rights, attended by representatives of 53 governments. "I will continue to work wholeheartedly for human rights in the way that I know best, as an advocate," she said.
There is speculation that she may re-emerge in some high-profile position with a non-governmental organisation or foundation, or possibly as an academic with an outspoken interest in human rights. Friends said she had not made up her mind precisely on a new role but was "adamant" it would be in the human rights sphere.
Paying tribute to her work, the UN Secretary-General, Mr Kofi Annan, said: "She will continue to make a valuable contribution to the promotion of human rights in the community of all nations."
Mrs Robinson wrote to the Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, and the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Cowen, advising them in advance of her decision. In the letter, which arrived yesterday morning, she thanked them for the Government's "wholehearted support" during her term of office. She also acknowledged the assistance she received from officials such as the head of the Irish mission to the UN in Geneva, Ms Anne Anderson, and Mr Ronan Murphy, who has been on secondment to her office from the Department of Foreign Affairs.
The Taoiseach and other political leaders paid tribute to her work. Mr Ahern said she had been "an inspiring advocate for the dignity and fundamental rights of every person".
The Tanaiste said she had been "the lone but distinctive voice" in the fight for human rights.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs said she had "drawn the world's attention to human rights abuses wherever they occurred". Her legacy would be an enduring one.
The Fine Gael leader, Mr Michael Noonan, said: "Over the last 3 1/2 years she has spoken without fear or favour for human rights in all parts of the world."