IDEA is deeply honoured to announce that we will be presenting President of Ireland Michael D. Higgins with our inaugural Global Voice for Humanity Award at the IDEA annual conference on Wednesday, 28 May at the Grand Hotel, Malahide, Dublin. 

The Global Voice for Humanity Award has been created by IDEA to honour individuals whose life and work exemplify the values at the heart of Global Citizenship Education and Development Education - values such as justice, human dignity, solidarity, critical thinking, and the power of education to transform lives and societies. 

As Ireland’s national network for Development Education and Global Citizenship Education, IDEA represents over 100 organisations and educators working to foster global justice through learning. The award seeks to celebrate those who have used their voice, leadership, and vision to inspire positive change - both within Ireland and globally. 

It is difficult to imagine a more fitting first recipient than President Higgins. A former academic and lecturer, poet, parliamentarian, Minister for the Arts, and now President of Ireland, he has spent his life standing up for the marginalised, promoting peace and equality, and advocating for a fairer world. Through his words and his actions, he has consistently reflected the values that guide the Global Citizenship Education community. 

“President Higgins has long been a rare kind of leader - someone who combines intellectual courage with deep humanity. He has spent a lifetime speaking out against injustice, standing with the marginalised, and challenging us to think critically and act with compassion. Through his words, his leadership, and his example, he has inspired generations across Ireland and beyond to believe in the power of education and the responsibility of citizenship. In honouring him with the Global Voice for Humanity Award, we’re not only recognising his legacy - we’re celebrating the values that drive our work every day: justice, dignity, solidarity, and hope. It’s a privilege to honour him in the company of our members and the wider community at a time when those values are needed more than ever.”  Ruairí McKiernan, CEO of IDEA 

The award will be presented during a special ceremony from 12-1pm, as part of IDEA’s all-day Annual Conference 2025.

Neale Richmond, Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs with special responsibility for International Development and Diaspora will address the conference, which will be attended by organisations and educators across the Global Citizenship Education and Development Education sector. 

IDEA Conference 2025 

The theme of this year’s conference, “Reclaiming Ground for Hope, Alternatives, and Action” invites us to come together to reflect, reconnect, and reimagine the role of transformative education in building a better future. 

The IDEA Annual Conference 2025 brings together educators, community leaders, artists, activists, and change-makers for a day of music, workshops, fireside chats, panel discussions, and shared learning. 

This year’s powerful line-up of speakers includes: 

Grace Dyas - award-winning artist, activist, and director 

Joe Caslin - street artist and educator whose public work has inspired national conversations 

Dean Oke - youth worker and spoken word artist using creativity for social impact 

Neale Richmond - Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs with special responsibility for International Development and Diaspora

Senator Lynn Ruane - Senator and lifelong campaigner for equality and community justice 

Seán McCabe - Head of Climate Justice at Bohemian FC, bridging sport and social change 

Donnah Vuma - human rights advocate and migrant justice leader 

And many more contributors across education, activism, and creative practice. 

This will be a landmark moment for the IDEA community - a day to pause, honour, connect, and gather strength for the work ahead. It will also be an opportunity to come together in deep appreciation of a President whose life’s work reflects the very spirit of global solidarity and justice we strive to nurture every day - through education, community, and courageous action. We hope you’ll join us. 

Please note: Attendance is by registration only and spaces are almost fully booked. A few final places remain - once full, a waiting list will be established. 

Conference details & registration 

For any questions relating specifically to the awards ceremony, please contact:ruairi@ideaonline.ie