Northern Ireland and its education system’s response to the troubles

Abstract

The Troubles, as it is known world-wide, was a harsh chapter in the history of Northern Ireland. It was characterised by a conflict between Loyalists and Republicans from 1968-1998. The reason for the conflict, although it was multi-layered, can be outlined as deep-rooted tensions between Loyalists, who wanted to stay within the United Kingdom (UK), and Republicans, who wanted Northern Ireland to be its own state, free from the influence of Westminster. This paper focuses on how the education system in Northern Ireland has grappled with the aftermath of the Troubles. It discusses the role of peace education to conclude that peace education is a continuous form of education that all education systems should take seriously. Teaching about the Troubles in schools in Northern Ireland in ways that reflect core characteristics of peace education can lead to healing and new beginnings for new generations.