The Good Friday Agreement was a historic achievement for peace in Northern Ireland, but it has been a contentious issue among unionists since its signing in 1998. The Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) is a leading voice in the chorus of opposition. In this article, we will explore the reasons why a majority of unionists, including the DUP, oppose the Good Friday Agreement and how this has influenced political dynamics in the region. As we will see, the issue goes to the heart of identity and loyalty in Northern Ireland, and has consequences for the fragile peace that has been established over the past two decades.
On April 10, 1998, the Good Friday Agreement, also known as the Belfast Agreement, was signed between the British and Irish governments and Northern Ireland’s political parties, effectively ending the Troubles – a period of sectarian conflict that rocked Northern Ireland for over 30 years. The agreement established a power-sharing government in Northern Ireland and recognised the right of the region to self-determination, bringing an end to the violence that cost over 3,000 lives.
On the 23rd anniversary of the agreement, celebrations in Northern Ireland were muted, with mixed feelings among the population. The Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), Northern Ireland’s largest unionist party, said they would not be celebrating the anniversary. The DUP has been critical of the Good Friday Agreement since its inception, arguing that it has failed to address certain issues, such as the decommissioning of paramilitary weapons and the status of Northern Ireland within the United Kingdom. According to a recent poll by the Belfast Telegraph, 47% of unionists oppose the Good Friday Agreement.
Nonetheless, the anniversary was marked with commemorative events, such as a virtual event by the Abbey Theatre in Dublin, which featured readings and music reflecting on the agreement. The event was part of a broader programme by the Irish government to mark the anniversary, including a debate on the past, present, and future of the Good Friday Agreement.
Reflecting on the past and present of the Good Friday Agreement, RTE.ie published an article highlighting the achievements of the agreement, such as the establishment of a power-sharing government in Northern Ireland, which has kept the peace in the region for over two decades. However, it also noted that the agreement has not fulfilled all its promises, with issues such as reconciliation and the legacy of the Troubles still unresolved.
One area where the agreement’s impact has been questioned is the youth of Northern Ireland. An article in The Irish Times examined what the agreement has delivered for the region’s young people. While acknowledging the positive impact the agreement has had on their lives, such as increased opportunities for cross-community engagement and a sense of normalcy, the article also highlighted the challenges facing young people in Northern Ireland today. These include high levels of poverty and mental health issues, which have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In an opinion piece for Independent.ie, former Irish Taoiseach (Prime Minister) Bertie Ahern, who played a key role in negotiating the Good Friday Agreement, reflected on the 23rd anniversary of the agreement and the lessons learned from it. He emphasised the need to continue to work towards reconciliation in Northern Ireland and address issues such as sectarianism, inequality, and poverty.
Despite the challenges, the Good Friday Agreement remains a landmark moment in the history of Northern Ireland and a model for conflict resolution around the world. As noted by Ahern, the anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on the progress made, the challenges that remain, and the need to continue to work towards a peaceful and prosperous future for all in Northern Ireland.
