At the Crossroads: Conflict Resolution in Northern Ireland
Date
2000
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Haverford College. Department of Political Science
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Award
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eng
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Haverford users only
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Abstract
The following paper is a study of Northern Ireland's tenuous political history and conflict, which has enveloped the region for over four centuries. The problem I considered was the longevity of this conflict between two nationalisms in one common region and the challenges of resolution. Conflict resolution had eluded Northern Ireland until recent times and the question to be answered is: what factors led to potential peace and reconciliation and what are the implications for understanding other internal conflicts? To comprehend the achievements of recent peace negotiations in Northern Ireland, it is necessary to review the origin of the conflict four centuries ago and the subsequent periods of alteration in Ireland and Northern Ireland's history. The challenge in present times directly relates to the problems of the 17th century and the deep-seated resentments between the communities that were fostered at this early stage. The complication of an analysis of Northern Ireland relates to the broader relations with Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland as their histories are intertwined. With the inclusion of additional participants in this regional conflict, the longevity of troubles increased, as interests were varied and incompatible for an extensive period of time. Differing perceptions of a solution and failure of direct communication from these diverse groups, kept resolution at bay until the end of the 20th century. Conflict negotiation commenced with a realistic chance for success once external parties, Britain and the Republic, removed their self-serving interests from the bargaining table and allowed for internal discussion in a democratic setting. Internally, a stalemate between opposing communities and a shared dread of continued violence fostered a willingness to seek a common solution and accept the legitimacy of one another's views and goals. Furthermore, the introduction of the United States as a third party mediator introduced an international element to the resolution of Northern Ireland's conflict and heightened the opportunity for success. Despite the current challenges to the implementation of the Good Friday Agreement's power-sharing government in Northern Ireland, the importance of the negotiations cannot be denied and its success is impending. A commitment to work together towards peace was long awaited and did not develop during any previous stage of the conflict; to fail now is not advantageous for any of the participants and the impasse must be overcome. Even with successful resolution, tensions and ethno-national divisions will not be removed and the future will remain uncertain. An end to violence and the creation of a system for these communities to work cooperatively would indicate a success, and has the potential to establish a lasting climate of peace.