The Role of Social Identity in Conflict and in Peacebuilding: A Northern Ireland Case Study

Abstract

Crooks takes Northern Ireland as an example of a deeply divided society and identifies some of the structural and psychological conditions that can perpetuate conflict even after a peace agreement has been signed. The author illustrates how leaders and community influencers, drawing on theories about social identity, group behaviour, and social change could lead and support their communities to encounter each other in safe spaces, engage in dialogue, address negative biases, and develop mutually harmonious relationships.