Ireland is grappling with the balance between its historic neutrality policy and its security amid a darkening security backdrop in Europe. Since World War II, Ireland has followed a policy of neutrality to assert an independent foreign policy from Britain. However, three developments have changed Ireland’s outlook on foreign affairs: formal NATO partnerships, the European Union Common Security and Defence Policy, and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The Irish government launched a Consultative Forum on International Security Policy in June to respond to these threats, which led to a budget increase for the Irish Defence Forces. The report recommended that Ireland’s neutral status remain unchanged, balancing respect for its neutral history with increased military spending and further engagement in world affairs. The report also called for a reexamination of the triple lock mechanism, which applies to military actions involving more than 12 personnel.
The forum came on the heels of a budget increase for the Irish Defence Forces, from €1.1bn to €1.5bn by 2028.
