Addressing Housing Inequalities in Post-conflict Belfast: A Transformative Justice Approach

Abstract

Belfast is a deeply divided city not just politically, socially, and economically but physically. It is a city shaped by its history, its experiences of violent conflict, and its post-conflict transition. A collage of so-called peace walls segregates the city’s neighbourhoods creating some of the most deprived areas where inequalities are exacerbated by the tension and sectarianism that segregation reinforces. Historical and new inequalities in the provision and allocation of social housing affect many vulnerable individuals and communities. The challenge of navigating housing in a politically and physically divided city has resulted in failed opportunities to address these inequalities. Addressing the legacy of violence and human rights violations is central to building sustainable peace. If we acknowledge that socio-economic inequalities are not only a consequence of violent conflict but a root cause, then we must also acknowledge that correcting these inequalities is an essential component of post-conflict policy. Under a transformative justice approach to peacebuilding, affirmative action programmes, and grassroots social movements, such as the Right to the City, could be utilised to reshape housing policy and address chronic housing inequalities in post-conflict Belfast. In doing so we could look to the future as well as deal with the past.