Dr James Carr appointed as Ireland’s representative on European Commission against Racism and Intolerance
University of Limerick academic Dr James Carr has been appointed Ireland’s representative on the European Commission against Racism and Intolerance (ECRI).
Dr Carr, an Associate Professor in the Department of Sociology at UL, said he was “deeply honoured” to be selected by the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration as Ireland’s nominee to serve on ECRI.
Part of the Council of Europe – the largest human rights organisation in the world – ECRI is a unique human rights body that monitors Council of Europe Member States’ action against racism, intolerance and related discrimination.
Each Member State of the Council of Europe has the right to appoint one ECRI member, with each chosen on the basis of their independence, impartiality, moral authority and recognised expertise in dealing with issues of racism and intolerance.
Dr Carr is an authority on the topics of Islamophobia and anti-Muslim racism in Ireland. Most recently, he has led the Sustainable Alliances Against Anti-Muslim Hatred (SALAAM) project, funded by the European Commission, in partnership with civil society organisations. The SALAAM project is focused on fighting anti-Muslim hatred in Ireland through activities including the development of anti-racism training for local authority staff as well as the provision of improved resources and supports to victims.
Dr Carr commented: “I am deeply honoured to have been nominated by Ireland for this position and for the approval of my appointment to the European Commission against Racism and Intolerance (ECRI). I am looking forward to adding my rich experience in anti-racism policy and academic work to that of colleagues at the Commission with the aim of supporting human rights across the Council of Europe’s member States.”
UL President Professor Shane Kilcommins welcomed Dr Carr’s appointment as “a recognition not only of James’ outstanding scholarship, but also of his unwavering commitment to advancing equality, inclusion and human rights.”
“Through his research, teaching and engagement with communities, James has made an important contribution to deepening our understanding of racism, discrimination and social exclusion, while helping to inform practical responses to these challenges. His work exemplifies the role that universities can play in addressing some of society's most pressing issues and in contributing to positive social change,” said Professor Kilcommins.
“At University of Limerick, we are proud of academics whose expertise has an impact far beyond the campus, influencing policy, shaping public debate and improving lives. James' appointment to this important European body reflects both his international standing in the field and the value of evidence-based research in building more inclusive and cohesive societies.”
Dr Carr will take up his role at ECRI immediately, among its 46 members, and will hold the position until 2030.
