Mary Robinson

“I was elected by the women of Ireland, who instead of rocking the cradle, rocked the system.”

“The future is not a gift. It is an achievement.”

“In a world of interdependence, global citizenship is not an option but a necessity.”

“Human rights are inscribed in the hearts of people; they were there long before lawmakers drafted their first proclamation.”

“Nobody can be neutral on the issue of human rights.”

“Climate change is the greatest human rights issue of our time.”

“A culture is not an abstract thing. It is a living, evolving process.”

“Leadership is about listening. It's about empowering people.”

“Poverty is a denial of human rights.”

“Real change comes from the grassroots. It's the people on the ground who are making a difference.”

“We have to be global citizens.”

“We need to create a world where every girl can learn and lead.”

“We must not be afraid to speak truth to power.”

“There is no them and us. There is only us.”

“The protection of human rights is a universal concern.”

“The fifth province is not anywhere on the map of Ireland. It is a place within ourselves... a place of creativity and imagination.”

“Peace is not the absence of conflict but the presence of justice.”