Mary Robinson addressed an International Women’s Day rally in Belfast. The event began at Writer’s Square and proceeded along Royal Avenue to City Hall.

Robinson accused the US administration under Donald Trump of spreading lies to confuse the public about truth. She stated truth supports human relations and requires people to flourish collectively.

She highlighted violence against women and girls on the island and globally. Robinson noted falling international aid contributions amid increased war spending.

Robinson referenced a conflict involving Israel and the United States against Iran that caused devastation in the Middle East. She pointed to the erosion of the rule of law in favor of power and urged solidarity to oppose threats to rights.

She addressed misogyny on social media, stating AI tools worsen attacks on women and girls. Robinson announced an Ireland branch of her Project Dandelion initiative for food sovereignty on the island.

Other speakers included Iranian activist Azadeh Sobout, Helen Crickard from Reclaim the Agenda, and Aoife Nic An Tuile from Youth Action. Sobout rejected Iran’s theocratic regime and prior monarchy, opposing choices between oppression and destruction.

Nic An Tuile called for unity to prevent violence against women and girls, stating it impacts family members and friends and can be stopped.