Ann Derwin
Ambassador, Embassy of Ireland in the Netherlands
Ann Derwin

I am deeply committed to promoting the equal rights of women and girls in my work as Ambassador of Ireland to The Netherlands, and as Ireland’s Permanent Representative to a number of international organisations based in The Hague. Gender equality is a core value in Ireland’s foreign policy, and also underpins the internal policies of Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. I seek to promote diversity and inclusion in all my multilateral and bilateral engagements. As the Security Council reaffirmed 25 years ago in its landmark Resolution 1325, women have a vital role to play in the prevention and resolution of conflicts. The Hague is the international city of peace and justice, and the full and equal participation of women in decision-making in the international organisations based here is critical to the success of our collective peace-building endeavours.

I support the IGC Panel Parity Pledge.

I support the IGC gender-based violence pledge.

Personal Commitments

Promoting Saint’s Brigid Day, an Irish national holiday celebrating the power of women: On 1 February each year, the Embassy of Ireland commemorates Saint Brigid’s Day, a national holiday in Ireland that celebrates the power and influence of women from culture and creativity, to leadership, community and innovation. This year, the Embassy organised a photo exhibition featuring the works of women photographers in Groningen, which was our first gender themed in 2026. This exhibition is currently running at the Noorderlicht gallery.
Advocating for gender equality and non-discrimination against women in Hague-based international organisations, including the OPCW and the ICC: In 2026, the Embassy of Ireland will continue to promote gender equality through statements and engagement at key meetings of Hague-based international organisations, underscoring the importance of women’s participation, inclusion, and leadership in multilateral decision-making. In addition, the Embassy of Ireland will continue to support, and where appropriate co-sponsor, gender-focused side events at major multilateral conferences, including the 31st session of the OPCW Conference of States Parties in The Hague (November 2026) and, where applicable, the 25th session of the ICC Assembly of States Parties in New York (December 2026), in coordination with relevant partners.