Landmark Peace Accord Ended Decades Of Conflict

25th Anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement

Landmark Peace Accord Ended Decades of Conflict

Agreement Approved by Voters in 1998 Referendum

April 10, 2023, marks the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, a historic political deal that put an end to 30 years of violent conflict in Northern Ireland.

The agreement, also known as the Belfast Agreement, was reached after extensive negotiations between the British and Irish governments, political parties in Northern Ireland, and representatives of the wider community.

In a referendum held on May 22, 1998, voters in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland overwhelmingly approved the agreement. The "Yes" vote won by a margin of 71% in Northern Ireland and 94% in the Republic of Ireland.

The Good Friday Agreement established a new power-sharing government in Northern Ireland, devolved policing and justice powers to the region, and created the North-South Ministerial Council to promote cooperation between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Conclusion

The Good Friday Agreement has been hailed as a major success in conflict resolution and a beacon of hope for other divided societies. It has transformed the political landscape of Northern Ireland, bringing an end to violence and providing a framework for peaceful coexistence and progress. As we commemorate the 25th anniversary of this historic agreement, it is important to reflect on its hard-won achievements and to recommit ourselves to its principles of peace, reconciliation, and shared prosperity.