Ireland has been an OSCE participating State since June 25, 1973; chaired the OSCE in 2012; and has periodically had its elections observed by the OSCE/ODIHR.  Ireland is a parliamentary democracy that is a member of the European Union and Council of Europe member.  

In addition to the Irish Foreign Minister appearing before the Helsinki Commission during the country's 2012 Chairmanship, the Commission has held several hearings on Northern Ireland. Commissioners have also visited Ireland on numerous occasions, including for OSCE and OSCE PA meetings.  Ireland has had an increased OSCE and Commission focus in recent years as a result of issues related to security, the economic downturn, and migration.