The BBC has a very interesting interview with John Paul Lederach, an expert with experiences of other peace processes all over the world. He argues that in viewing the Northern Ireland situation through a long term lens, he can only come to the conclusion that it is on a one way road to peace. It’s worth comparing his approach with that outlined by Vicky Collis here on Monday.
“My job was to engage in longer term bottom-up grassroots work. You do this by establishing organisations for elders, women’s associations and so on which build strength into a community by creating space for civil society.”
It’s these civil structures which slowly fill the vacuum, according to the Lederach doctrine, pushing violence to the margins.
Those taking steps towards the enemy are risking a lot. But it’s these brave individuals who end conflicts, says Mr Lederach, because if the wheels come off the political process the communities have already moved further away from violence.
That’s why he believes Northern Ireland is closing the book on its past.
Mick is founding editor of Slugger. He has written papers on the impacts of the Internet on politics and the wider media and is a regular guest and speaking events across Ireland, the UK and Europe. Twitter: @MickFealty
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