President Michael D. Higgins Warns of Global Shift Toward ‘Might Is Right’ in First Overseas Speech

In his first overseas address as President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins delivered a stark warning about the erosion of democratic norms and the rise of authoritarian tendencies worldwide, cautioning that the world is witnessing a dangerous shift toward a “might is right” paradigm. Speaking at a left-wing summit in Brussels hosted by European Parliament members critical of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s foreign policy, Higgins emphasized that democracy is not a given but a continuous struggle requiring global solidarity.

The speech, delivered on April 10, 2024, marked Higgins’ first international trip since his re-election in 2022 for a second seven-year term. It came amid growing concerns among Irish civil servants and government officials about the symbolic weight of choosing Brussels — a hub of EU policymaking often criticized by sovereigntist factions — as the destination for his maiden foreign engagement.

Higgins, a former poet, sociologist, and UN diplomat, framed his message around the interconnected threats to democracy: disinformation, economic inequality, and the weakening of multilateral institutions. He urged world leaders to reject cynicism and recommit to collective action, stating, “Too much is at stake to allow fear or indifference to dictate our response.”

Context and Significance of the Trip

President Higgins’ visit to Brussels was notable not only for its timing but likewise for its symbolic resonance. The summit, organized by the Progressive Alliance of Socialists & Democrats in the European Parliament, brought together left-leaning politicians and civil society activists from across Europe. Higgins was invited to speak on the theme of “Defending Democracy in an Age of Authoritarian Resurgence.”

His choice of venue drew commentary from Irish media outlets, including The Journal and The Irish Times, which noted unease among some government circles over the perceived politicization of the trip. Critics argued that aligning with a forum explicitly critical of Trump — despite his no longer holding office — risked appearing partisan. Supporters, however, praised Higgins for using the platform to reaffirm Ireland’s commitment to liberal democratic values and EU solidarity.

According to The Irish Times, senior civil servants expressed private concerns that the trip could be misinterpreted as endorsing a specific ideological bloc within the EU. Nonetheless, the Presidency maintained that the invitation reflected Ireland’s longstanding engagement with European democratic forums and Higgins’ lifelong advocacy for human rights and social justice.

Core Message: Democracy Under Threat

In his address, Higgins did not name any single country or leader but painted a broad picture of democratic backsliding observed in various regions. He cited declining trust in institutions, the rise of populist movements that undermine judicial independence, and the weaponization of information as key threats.

“Democracy is not merely a system of voting,” Higgins said. “It is a culture — one rooted in dignity, dialogue, and the belief that every person has a right to shape the conditions of their lives. When that culture is replaced by coercion, propaganda, or the silent acceptance of injustice, we are no longer living in a democracy — we are living under the rule of force.”

He called for renewed investment in civic education, independent media, and international cooperation to counter authoritarian tactics. Higgins also highlighted the role of small states like Ireland in upholding multilateralism, noting that “moral authority does not always reside with the powerful.”

Reactions and Broader Implications

The speech was widely covered by Irish and international media. BreakingNews.ie reported that Higgins’ remarks were echoed by Catherine Connolly, TD for Galway West and former Ceann Comhairle (Speaker) of Dáil Éireann, who attended the summit and reiterated the require for cross-border collaboration to safeguard democratic norms.

The Irish Independent quoted Connolly as saying, “Too much is at stake — our climate, our rights, our peace — to let democracy falter now. We must defend it not just in parliaments, but in classrooms, newsrooms, and town halls.”

While Higgins did not directly reference Trump or current U.S. Politics, analysts noted that the summit’s organizers have been vocal critics of the Trump administration’s approach to NATO, trade, and international agreements. The President’s participation was seen as a subtle but meaningful signal of Ireland’s alignment with EU efforts to uphold rules-based global order amid geopolitical uncertainty.

Historical Precedent and Presidential Diplomacy

Higgins’ overseas speech follows a tradition of Irish presidents using foreign trips to promote peace, human rights, and cultural diplomacy. His predecessors, Mary McAleese and Mary Robinson, were similarly known for their advocacy on global issues — Robinson as a former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, and McAleese for her work in Northern Ireland reconciliation.

As a former UN press officer and longtime lecturer in political science, Higgins brings a rare depth of experience to the presidency. His academic background in sociology and political theory informs his emphasis on structural causes of democratic decline, rather than attributing challenges solely to individual leaders.

The trip also underscores Ireland’s evolving role in European affairs. Though not a major military power, Ireland has increasingly positioned itself as a voice for ethical foreign policy, development aid, and conflict mediation — particularly through its participation in UN peacekeeping missions and its advocacy for international law.

Conclusion: A Call to Vigilance

President Michael D. Higgins’ first overseas address serves as both a reminder and a rallying cry. In an era marked by democratic fatigue and rising authoritarianism, his message is clear: the defense of liberty requires courage, consistency, and cooperation across borders.

By choosing to speak at a forum dedicated to progressive values and multilateralism, Higgins reaffirmed Ireland’s identity as a nation that believes in the power of dialogue over domination. As he concluded his speech, he left listeners with a simple yet profound challenge: “Do not wait for others to act. Commence where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.”

In a world where the temptation to equate strength with righteousness grows stronger, Higgins’ warning remains urgently relevant: might does not develop right — and never will.