A chance for peace in Northern Ireland

Abstract

The 'Good Friday' Agreement in Northern Ireland, brokered by the British, Irish and US governments, gives the best chance of peace in the province for generations. For a long time to come, however, it will be under severe threat both from terrorist splinter groups and from the hardline attitudes of many Unionist politicians. The makers of the Agreement hope that, even if the new institutions it has created do not work well, a lasting cease-fire between the main paramilitary groups will buy a period of peace during which hatreds will diminish and the foundations can be laid for a lasting settlement.