Post-agreement societies and inter-ethnic competition: A comparative study of the Protestant community of Londonderry and the white population of Pretoria

Abstract

Northern Ireland and South Africa are societies in a process of transition. The Good Friday Agreement of 1998 and the multi-racial elections in 1994 signified new eras in each country. Although successful in addressing the problem of political violence, how effective have these settlements been at the level of improving inter-ethnic relations and promoting the kind of shared identity that can begin to transcend the twin problems of sectarianism and racism? This article conducts a comparative examination of two urban minority groups viz the Protestant community of Londonderry and the white population of Pretoria. It uses the concept of ‘alienation’ as a way of exploring concerns that have been voiced by these groups who feel themselves to be culturally under threat. Notwithstanding these settlements, the article highlights the continued importance of ethno-symbolism for different groups and draws our attention to the nature of inter-ethnic competition in the post-agreement period. In addition to pointing to the durability of ethnic identity, it focuses on an issue that has the capacity to ignite inter-ethnic and inter-racial dispute. Whilst the issue keeps the ethnic fracture visible in Northern Ireland, it frustrates attempts at nation-building in South Africa.