1. Stepping Toward Retirement — A Reflective Homecoming
As President Higgins nears the end of his second term (ending November 11, 2025), he shares poignant reflections on transitioning back to life in Galway. At 84, he continues to enjoy poetry, remains deeply connected to the arts, and looks back on a life shaped by both political activism and cultural immersion. Acknowledging his stroke and reliance on walking sticks, he still expresses hope and purpose—particularly with renewed writing, including plans for a poem honoring a young journalist killed in Gaza.
The Times
2. Championing Humanity: Gaza, Racism & Global Justice
- Condemning Racism in Ireland
On August 12, amidst rising reports of hate crimes, Higgins condemned violent attacks targeting the Indian community in Ireland as “totally unacceptable.” He reaffirmed Ireland’s longstanding positive ties with India and stressed the need for societal unity and safety for all.
The Times of India - Solidarity with Gaza and Critique of Global Inaction
At the Bloomsday garden event in June, Higgins refused to stay silent while democracy and humanitarian values are threatened. He criticized global inaction in Gaza, warned against the silencing of dissent, and criticized authoritarian trends, particularly in American academia.
The Irish TimesTheJournal.ie
3. Diplomacy and Cultural Exchanges
In August, Princess Anne received by President Higgins in Dublin, reflecting continued strong ties between Ireland and the UK. The meeting celebrated her contributions to equestrianism and equine therapy, symbolizing a blend of pastoral interests and diplomatic goodwill.
People.com
4. A Presidential Swan Song: Final St. Patrick’s Day Message
Higgins’ March 2025 St. Patrick’s Day address, his last in office, was a heartfelt appeal to collective conscience. He spoke of shared values, inclusion, and solidarity—urging the Irish public to uphold hope, compassion, and intergenerational responsibility in uncertain times.
The Suntheirishworld.com
5. A Legacy Honored: Global Voice for Humanity Award
At the IDEA Annual Conference in June, Higgins was awarded the first-ever Global Voice for Humanity Award, acknowledging his lifelong advocacy for justice, human rights, and global citizenship. Fingal’s strong presence at the ceremony underscored local admiration for his international ideals.
Donegal Daily
Summary Table
| Theme | Key Update |
|---|---|
| Retirement | Reflecting on public life, poetry, health, and homecoming in Galway |
| Advocacy | Condemned racism, supported India ties, voiced solidarity with Gaza |
| Diplomacy | Hosted Princess Anne, highlighting soft diplomacy and cultural ties |
| Final Address | Delivered a deeply empathetic and value-focused last St. Patrick’s message |
| Recognition | Honored with Global Voice for Humanity Award for social justice commitment |
Final Thoughts
As his presidency concludes, Michael D. Higgins remains a figure of thoughtful leadership. Whether through defending minority rights, speaking against injustice, or celebrating shared humanity, he uses the power of words and empathy. His concluding months remind Ireland—and the world—of the importance of values that transcend politics, championing solidarity, creativity, and moral leadership as the true marks of public service.
Let me know if you’d like a feature-length profile, an op-ed style summary, or deeper coverage of his speeches or poetry projects!
