INTRODUCTION:
The situation in Northern Ireland remains tense due to a political deadlock that has left the region
without effective local government for two years. Post-Brexit trade rules have sparked discontent
among unionists, and the recent amnesty law has been heavily criticized. Furthermore, the lack of local
government has led to a deterioration in public services, sparking strikes and protests.
1) State of the conflict and persistent tensions:
The conflict in Northern Ireland remains a source of significant tension. Despite peace
agreements, such as the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, tensions persist due to several factors:
IRA Resurgence: The New Irish Republican Army (New IRA) has been active, claiming
responsibility for several attacks and murders in recent years. This group seeks to continue
the armed struggle of the former IRA, exacerbating tensions in the region.
Amnesty Law: The recent British law offering amnesty to paramilitary and security personnel
has been heavily criticized by victims' families and all political parties in Northern Ireland.
This law has generated discontent and has been seen as a hidden amnesty.
Impact of Brexit: Post-Brexit trade rules have created friction, especially among unionists
who feel betrayed by agreements that keep Northern Ireland in the EU's common market and
customs union.
Violence and Protests: The region has seen an increase in violence and protests, with riots
and attacks reminiscent of the darkest times of the conflict.
Despite these issues, there are ongoing (2)Efforts for peace:
The Good Friday Agreement of 1998: This was a big step towards peace in Northern
Ireland, setting up a system for sharing power and addressing important issues like human
rights and disarmament
PEACE PLUS Program: This EU program helps support peace and cooperation in Northern
Ireland and the border areas of Ireland.
Ex-Combatant Integration: Programs for ex-combatants help former fighters reintegrate into
society with rehabilitation and support.
Community Cohesion: Efforts to promote community cohesion continue, encouraging dialogue
and understanding between different communities.
Remember, Renew, Reconcile: These attitudes are crucial for maintaining peace, focusing on
remembering the past, renewing commitment to peace, and working towards reconciliation.
These efforts aim to build a more peaceful and stable Northern Ireland, (3)but challenges
remain:
1. Brexit Impact: Brexit has caused significant friction, especially due to the Northern Ireland
Protocol, which creates customs checks in the Irish Sea. This has upset unionists who feel
their connection to the UK is weakening.
2. Persistent Sectarianism: Despite the Good Friday Agreement, tensions between Protestant
and Catholic communities persist due to historical conflicts and cultural differences.
3. Violence and Protests: There has been an increase in violence and protests, with riots
reminiscent of the darker times of the conflict. Frustration over Brexit and other
socioeconomic issues has fueled these tensions.
4. Political Disillusionment: Political disillusionment has led to increased support for more
extreme parties, and the inability of unionist parties to prevent the Northern Ireland Protocol
has damaged their credibility.
These contemporary challenges make the situation in Northern Ireland complicated and present
significant obstacles to achieving lasting peace.
(4)CONCLUSION:
The future of Northern Ireland has many political and social challenges. Post-Brexit trade
rules have caused political deadlock and stopped institutions from working. Brexit has
created tensions between unionists and republicans. The lack of a local government has
worsened public services. The new British amnesty law is criticized by victims' families.
The Windsor Framework Agreement aims to address the Northern Ireland Protocol and
support the Good Friday Agreement but lacks DUP support. The future depends on managing
these challenges and cooperation between parties.
SOURCES USED:
El Periódico
Euronews
El Debate
The Conversation
ITV News
Council on Foreign Relations
