The Concept of Human Dignity as a Floor of Housing Rights Obligations in Ireland - IHREC v Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth and the Attorney General [2025] IECA 156

The concept of human dignity lies at the root of all human rights instruments, which must be respected even where other rights are restricted. This right to human dignity as a floor of human rights protection is innately understood, but is only recently being defined in Irish law. The concept of human dignity (in the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights) as a floor of human rights protection is being developed by Irish and European courts in the context of homelessness among asylum seekers. Yet, the meaning of human dignity can be context-specific, varying over time and within particular jurisdictions. This case addresses these issues.