Deep-Rooted Conflict and the IRA Cease-Fire

Using the situation in Northern Ireland as a reference point, this book explores two disparate methods of interpreting and attempting to deal with deep-rooted and protracted ethnic conflict. The traditional method; which relies on the ideas of power, coercion, and "arm twisting," is the first to be explored and is primarily concerned with managing such conflict. The more radical human needs approach, which believes deep-rooted conflict can be resolved rather than merely managed, is also explored. The conflict in the North of Ireland epitomizes the definition of deep-rooted and protracted ethnic conflict put forward by the human needs approach. Dunnigan examines many facets of the conflict and uses the current peace processes to promote the idea that it is possible to resolve such long-standing conflicts.

Contents: Defining the Causes of Conflict; Differing Views of Terrorism and Ethnic Conflict; Identifying the Problem; Looking Toward Resolution; The Two Concepts; Approaching the Conflict; The Dimension of the North; The Value of Violence; Cease-fire; The Beginning; IRA Statement Announcing Cease-fire Headlines; The Joint Declaration; British Reply to Sinn Fein Request for Clarification.