Event marks decade of marriage equality with call to defend LGBTQI+ rights at home and abroad

The Marriage Referendum +10 Conference is taking place (13.05.25) at the Printworks in Dublin Castle, marking ten years since Ireland’s historic vote for marriage equality.

Organised by the team behind the Yes Equality campaign and Marriage Equality, the event, entitled ‘Defending Freedoms: Advancing Human Rights’, is bringing together members of the public, government representatives, academics, journalists, activists and private sector leaders to reflect on progress made and reaffirm Ireland’s commitment to LGBTQI+ rights at home and globally.

As Ireland looks ahead to its upcoming EU Presidency in 2026, speakers at the conference are calling for a renewed focus on the national equality agenda, LGBTQI+ leadership, and the protection of democracy in the face of growing threats to human rights and inclusion.

Speaking at the conference, Paula Fagan, CEO of LGBT Ireland, said the referendum changed lives and gave LGBTQI+ couples across Ireland the recognition and protection they deserve. However, she also warned that progress is not a finish line.

“We must stand firm in the face of rising hate and those seeking to roll back hard-won rights,” she said. “From the banning of Pride in Hungary to the ongoing inequalities facing LGBTQI+ parents, trans and non-binary people here in Ireland, we cannot be complacent. At a time when our young people are looking to us for leadership and hope, we must double down on our commitment to diversity, inclusion and equality – for now, and for the future.”

Minister’s Input

Addressing the conference, Norma Foley, Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, said: “In May 2015, ten years ago, Ireland made history. We became the first country in the world to vote for equal marriage in a Referendum. This was a momentous and powerful occasion for the entire country. It represented the coming together of a nation, in a most profound way to show solidarity, kindness and understanding for our fellow citizens.

As we prepare to launch Ireland’s next National LGBTIQ+ Inclusion Strategy, our commitment to improving the lives and protecting the rights of the LGBTIQ+ community remains steadfast. We want Ireland to remain a beacon of equality, democracy and inclusion.”

Today’s conference features a series of panel discussions and contributions from high-profile speakers including Simon Harris TD, Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade; Dr. Graeme Reid, UN Independent Expert on Protection against Violence and Discrimination based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity; and a wide range of national and international experts, campaigners and advocates working at the forefront of LGBTQI+ rights and inclusion.

For more information, visit: https://www.marref10.ie/