Connolly: Defend Democracy, Reform UN

0:00I'm Cory with the story, and you've been listening to Europe News Today, AI-powered European coverage. Ireland's president Catherine Connolly just dropped a strong message at a big conference in Spain, calling on the world to team up and defend. Democracy from serious threats. This was her first official trip abroad since getting elected last October, and she laid it out plain, democracy's role in history is huge, shifting. It was from empires and conquests to self-rule and peace, but now it's facing real danger. The event, called the Meeting and Defense of Democracy, had heavy hitters like Spain's prime minister, Pedro Sanchez, and Brazil's president, Louise Inachio. Lula de Silva in the crowd. Connolly gave props to both for stepping up with real courage, putting democracy front and center on the global stage. She pushed for some straight talk on how we got here, pointing to over 80 years of bending principles, ignoring big country's violations, and letting UN institutions get

1:01weakened or dismissed. That kind of quiet give-in has eroded the foundation set after two world wars to protect human rights no holds barred. Looking ahead, Connolly backed reforming the UN, even calling for a woman to take over from Secretary General Antonio Guterres. She highlighted Ireland's spot as a neutral, post-colonial nation, ready to contribute, and announced their run for a seat on the United Nations Human. Rights Council from 2027 to 2029. Multi-lateralism ain't optional. It's how we tackle climate change, poverty, wars, and more while upholding rights in law. By standing together, we rebuild those institutions and keep the focus on peace and dignity for everyone.