Community Rallies to Support Nikita Hand After Landmark Civil Rape Verdict

Following the High Court's ruling that Conor McGregor raped Nikita Hand, demonstrators gathered in Dublin, voicing their support for Hand and advocating for greater accountability in cases of sexual assault.

Several hundred people marched through Dublin in solidarity with Nikita Hand after she secured a civil victory in her lawsuit against mixed martial arts star Conor McGregor. A jury at the High Court found McGregor liable for raping Hand in a hotel in December 2018, ordering him to pay nearly €250,000 in damages.

The protest, organized by ROSA— a socialist feminist group—was held on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Starting at Dublin City Hall, the march wound along the River Liffey, culminating at the office of the Irish Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). Many demonstrators carried signs supporting Hand, emphasizing the need for public awareness and accountability regarding sexual assault cases.

Among the speakers was Natasha O’Brien, a well-known victim of an assault by an Irish soldier, who expressed her admiration for Hand’s bravery, stating that the verdict empowers other victims of assault. O’Brien declared, “You still have a voice,” highlighting the importance of speaking out against violence.

Protesters voiced their frustration over the DPP’s decision not to pursue criminal charges against McGregor, which they believe undermines the seriousness of Hand's case. Donna McCarthy, who traveled from County Kerry to participate in the demonstration, criticized the DPP’s inaction, declaring it “absolutely disgraceful.” She emphasized the ongoing struggle women face in seeking justice in such cases.

Deirdre De Feu, another attendee, echoed these sentiments, noting the climate of fear many women experience daily, stating, “Women aren’t feeling safe anywhere.”

Donna Heaney from the survivors’ organization Sisi pointed out the significance of the DPP’s decision to not prosecute, calling it a monumental issue. “So many victims go through the same thing,” she lamented, demanding that their voices be heard.

In 2020, the DPP informed Hand that there was "insufficient evidence" to pursue criminal charges, and there was a lack of reasonable prospect for conviction. Hand stated that she felt disadvantaged in her case due to McGregor's celebrity status and requested a review of the DPP's decision.

In response to the controversy, outgoing Irish Justice Minister Helen McEntee reaffirmed the independence of the justice system, insisting that it is crucial to respect that autonomy.