Lifetime Achievement Award
The Irish Red Cross will present The Lifetime Achievement award to an individual who has demonstrated exceptional humanitarian achievement throughout their career and/or personal life. This Award is not open for public nominations. The winner will be selected by the Irish Red Cross’ Board of Directors from a list of candidates proposed by the Irish Red Cross’ Humanitarian Award Committee. Previous award winners include Tony Geoghegan; Mary Lawlor; Catherine Corless; Dr Michael Ryan; John Lonergan and Pat Hume.
Learn more about our 2025 Award winner below.
Mary Robinson is one of Ireland’s most distinguished public figures and a globally respected advocate for human rights, climate justice, and gender equality. Born in Ballina, Co. Mayo in 1944, her career spans law, politics, and international diplomacy, leaving an indelible mark on both Ireland and the global stage.
A trailblazer throughout her life, Robinson became Reid Professor of Constitutional Law at Trinity College Dublin at just 25 years of age. She served in the Seanad for 20 years (1969-1989), championing progressive causes including women’s rights, LGBTQ+ equality, and access to contraception at a time when such positions were deeply controversial in Ireland.
In 1990, Robinson made history as Ireland’s first female President, transforming what had been a largely ceremonial role into a platform for social change and inclusivity. Her presidency redefined Ireland’s relationship with its diaspora, the Northern Ireland peace process, and marginalised communities. Her symbolic light in the window of Áras an Uachtaráin for Irish emigrants became an enduring emblem of hope and connection.
Following her presidency, Robinson became UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (1997-2002), elevating the prominence of human rights in international affairs. She has since founded and led numerous organisations addressing climate justice, women’s leadership, and corporate responsibility, including the Mary Robinson Foundation – Climate Justice.
As Chair of The Elders, the independent group of global leaders founded by Nelson Mandela, she continues to work toward peace, justice, and human rights worldwide. Her memoir, “Everybody Matters: My Life Giving Voice,” encapsulates her lifelong commitment to amplifying the voices of the vulnerable and championing ethical leadership.
Throughout her remarkable career spanning over five decades, Mary Robinson has remained a fearless moral voice, consistently standing with those most affected by inequality, conflict, and climate change. Her achievements exemplify the humanitarian principles of compassion, impartiality, and human dignity that are at the core of the Red Cross movement.