British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has emphasized the need to intensify efforts to restore the power-sharing government central to the Good Friday Agreement, 25 years after its signing in
Belfast on April 10, 1998. The accord is considered one of the most significant peace deals of the late 20th century, aimed at ending three decades of sectarian strife that killed more than 3,600 people.
The peace deal has come under strain following Britain's exit from the European Union, and other political crises have overshadowed this week's commemorations. US President Joe Biden will fly into Northern Ireland on Tuesday to attend events marking the 25th anniversary of the deal, reflecting the role the United States played in brokering the agreement.
In a statement on Monday, Sunak emphasized that the Good Friday Agreement was based on compromise in Northern Ireland and celebrated those who took difficult decisions, accepted compromise, and showed leadership, displaying bravery, perseverance, and political imagination. Sunak also highlighted that the peace deal continues to enjoy huge international support from the closest allies of the UK.
However, the peace deal faces challenges, with the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), the largest pro-British party, boycotting the power-sharing devolved government central to the peace deal for more than a year. They are unhappy with post-Brexit trade rules that treat the province of Northern Ireland differently from the rest of the United Kingdom.
Last month, Britain's MI5 intelligence agency increased the threat level in Northern Ireland from domestic terrorism to "severe," meaning an attack is considered highly likely. It is an alarming development that highlights the precarious nature of the peace deal and the need for further efforts to restore peace in the region.
Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar has pledged to intensify efforts with Sunak to break the political deadlock in the province. Sunak emphasized that it was a time to hail those who secured the 1998 deal and reflect on the progress made since then, but also to redouble efforts, saying "there is work to be done."
In conclusion, the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement highlights the importance of continuing efforts to restore peace and stability to Northern Ireland. The accord is a testament to the power of diplomacy and the willingness of parties to compromise in the interest of peace. However, the challenges faced by the peace deal require a renewed commitment to dialogue, compromise, and leadership. It is essential to ensure that the institutions are up and running again as soon as possible to prevent any further deterioration of the situation in Northern Ireland. Photo by Simon Dawson / No 10 Downing Street, Wikimedia commons.