The role of the International Fund for Ireland and the European Union Peace II Fund in reducing violence and sectarianism in Northern Ireland

Abstract

This study attempts to understand the perceived contribution of the International Fund for Ireland and European Union Peace II Fund in reducing violence and sectarianism in Northern Ireland (NI). We employ cross tabulations and nonlinear binary response models using public opinion survey data as well as analysis of 98 interviews conducted during the summer of 2006. Overall, we find Unionists to be less optimistic than Nationalists about the contribution of international economic assistance in reducing violence in NI. The perception of respondents about the role of international economic assistance in peacebuilding varies across gender, political affiliation and the nature of the relationship between individual and the funding agencies. The interview data reveals both the constructive and destructive potential of economic aid in NI's peacebuilding and post-violence development processes.