Future of Northern Ireland

Abstract

Although there continues to be sporadic attacks of violence and recent protests demonstrate that a return to future violence is still possible, the future of Northern Ireland looks promising. The peace monitoring report reflects on 2012 as a year of ups and downs. Chapter 5 outlines the key issues pertaining to the future of Northern Ireland. It begins with 10 key points of the 2012 peace monitoring report. It discusses views on the constitutional state of Northern Ireland and perceptions of group relations. It highlights the importance of shared space, group symbols and education as tools to improve group relations. It also considers whether a truth commission would benefit Northern Ireland and ends with some suggestions for future research before coming to final conclusions.