Short courses

Summary

Despite its promise of an end to conflict in Ulster, the twenty-five years since the Good Friday Agreement of 1998 have been one of the most turbulent periods in modern Irish history. While the agreement did result in disarmament and a framework for devolved political power, over time a lack of integration, failure to reckon with traumatic impacts, political deadlock, economic downturn, Brexit and residual paramilitarism now present substantial challenges. Does this threaten a return to the dark days of the ‘Troubles’ and social conflict? Or will the current political structures and a new generation be able to overcome these issues?   

Join this brief 5-week course to review and evaluate the progress made since the Good Friday Agreement and the risks facing Northern Ireland now. Explore the Agreement itself, review why the peace process in Northern Ireland may fail to deliver on its promises, the challenges it faces and what the consequences may be for future generations. 

Over a series of talks our expert tutor will explain: 

• Key events of this pivotal period including the establishment of the Good Friday agreement, disarmament and Brexit, right up to contemporary events and developments. 

• key evidence from these events and expert historical perspectives and debates 

You will also have the chance to discuss and reflect on what you learn with other students and the tutor in seminars. 

Choose this course if you want to learn: 

• more about how the Good Friday agreement was negotiated and implemented, its achievements and challenges 

• the broad recent history and identity of contemporary Northern Ireland and the issues it faces