The Belfast/Good Friday Agreement – Resolving Conflict

Join a panel of esteemed experts as they analyze the legal lessons from the Northern Ireland peace process that led to the 1998 Belfast/Good Friday Agreement, a pact that ended 30 years of violent unrest.

The bloody conflict known as “the Troubles” led to more than 3,500 deaths and even more casualties. Horrific terrorist attacks were carried out by members of paramilitary organizations, as were acts of brutality by police and army officers. Conflict between Republicans (supporters of a united Ireland, who were from largely Catholic communities) and Unionists (Protestants who were loyal to the United Kingdom) had existed for centuries. The 1921 partition of Ireland – which created Northern Ireland – was a major turning point.

So, how did the promise of peace get enemies to lay down weapons and move beyond a three-decade war of hate, murder and retribution? How were centuries of enmity between the unionist and nationalist communities in Northern Ireland overcome? How were political leaders enticed to set aside differences and a long history of resentment and forge an agreement?

This program will explore these questions and more for attorneys interested in conflict resolution, transitional justice and human rights.