First published in 1997, this volume responded to the peace process of the 1980s and 1990s between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, emerging just prior to the 1998 Good Friday Agreement. It constituted one of the first major academic examinations of the attempts to bring peace to Northern Ireland in the 1990's, and explores the historical origins of the process, before moving towards a critical account of the role of political parties in the development of the peace process. Critics have argued equally that the process was a sham, tactically repositioning Irish republicanism, and that it provided a framework for reconciliation or even conflict resolution. This book outlines the political changes which allowed the peace process to develop, along with analysing specific themes divided into three broad sections: the general aims of the peace process, the political perspectives and the issues under discussion. Aiming to promote discussion, these contributors explore the origins and function of the peace process, followed by an analysis of political perspectives including the Unionists, the SDLP and Irish Republicanism. Finally, they consider key issues of interest for the peace process, including the ever-present border debate, security strategies, education, and economics, whilst Rachel Ward makes the case for the skilled contributions of women available to formal politics.

About the Author
Gilligan, Chris | Tonge, Jonathan

Reviews
'...makes an important contribution to current debates around the peace process and identifies the key themes and trends.' Irish Studies Review 'One of the essential difficulties arising from the situation in Northern Ireland in recent years has been the willingness of many participants to either employ ambiguous language or to adopt seemingly contradictory positions. Several of the best sections of this volume are particularly strong on highlighting and analysing instances of such obfuscation.' Political Studies



Book Information
ISBN 9780367000868
Author Chris Gilligan
Format Paperback
Page Count 167
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 453g