Obama urges continual defense of democracy at Belfast ceremony
Barack Obama told a Belfast audience that democracy must be constantly defended and not taken for granted during his appearance at the O2 Arena.
At the O2 Arena in Belfast, Barack Obama, accompanied by journalist Susan McKay, emphasized that democracy is fragile and requires ongoing effort, noting humanity’s long history of empire and coercion. He expressed optimism that most people prefer having a voice in their communities and warned against complacency, urging parents to educate their children about democratic values. The remarks followed his receipt of an honorary doctorate from Queen’s University, where he praised the peace and opportunities created by the Good Friday Agreement.
Obama cited the example of Emma McAllister, a first-year law student who benefited from the cross-community R-CITY programme, as evidence of education’s power to bridge divides. He called on the university and broader community to continue fostering inclusion and ambition for future generations.
Why it matters
The speech links global democratic ideals to local peacebuilding, underscoring the need for continual civic engagement.
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