'After the dust settles' : the experiences of local peace and reconciliation organisations in post-Agreement Northern Ireland. A case study of the Corrymeela Community

Abstract

Using the case study of the Corrymeela Community (Corrymeela) in Northern Ireland, this thesis examines the experiences of Peace and Reconciliation Organisations (PROs) after peace agreements are implemented and funders begin to withdraw.

A theoretical framework, based on Putnam’s (2000) social capital theory, and a qualitative research design are developed for analysis of the Corrymeela Community’s experiences in the ‘post-Agreement’ period between 2009 and 2019. Bonding and bridging social capital are differentiated and it is argued that bridging social capital is of particular value to ongoing peacebuilding in Northern Ireland because it is indicative of productive connections between different identity communities.

The thesis examines the contextual subculture specific to Northern Ireland, which impacts upon Corrymeela’s experiences. PROs are operating in a political system of consociationalism that maintains society in silos from above and discourages inter-ethnic associations. The imposition of ‘strings attached’ funding, an effect of the pervasive Liberal Peace agenda in Northern Ireland has posed the most significant challenge to Corrymeela and the wider peacebuilding sector.

The outcomes of the peace agreement have varied for different actors and the post- Agreement period has been a challenging time for civil society organisations. Despite significant difficulties, Corrymeela has adopted what MacGinty (2011: 85-6) describes as “recalcitrant behaviour” and its approach has created an environment in which the exchange of productive social capital between individuals is encouraged. The physical site at its peace centre provides a space and culture in which different identity groups are given the opportunity to expose sameness, build trust and form relationships.

Overall, it is concluded that although Corrymeela continues to facilitate bridging social capital between different identity groups, its capacity to do so has been compromised by a variety of internal and external factors.