Crime and Conflict in Northern Ireland, 1921-2021: Stability, Conflict, Transition

The book explores the relationship between crime and conflict in Northern Ireland since 1921, examining how political divisions and violence have influenced criminal behavior.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 31 October 2023
Publisher: Cork University Press

The book delves into the intricate relationship between crime and conflict in Northern Ireland since the establishment of the Northern Irish state in 1921. While there has been a substantial body of research dedicated to examining Northern Ireland's political divisions and the devastating effects of the Troubles, the connection between these factors and crime has remained relatively overlooked. This study aims to shed light on this overlooked aspect, exploring the various ways in which crime and conflict interact and influence each other in the context of Northern Ireland.

The book begins by examining the historical background of Northern Ireland, including the partition of Ireland in 1921, the rise of paramilitary groups, and the outbreak of the Troubles in the 1960s. It then explores the various factors that contribute to crime in Northern Ireland, such as poverty, unemployment, social exclusion, and political marginalization. The book also looks at the impact of conflict on crime, including the use of violence as a means of coercion and control, the displacement of populations, and the breakdown of social institutions.

One of the key findings of the book is that crime and conflict in Northern Ireland are deeply intertwined, with one often leading to the other. For example, the Troubles led to significant displacement of populations, which in turn increased crime rates in some areas. Similarly, the presence of paramilitary groups and organized crime networks can be traced back to the conflict, as they sought to exploit the power vacuum created by the breakdown of the state.

The book also highlights the role that social and economic inequality plays in perpetuating crime and conflict. In Northern Ireland, there are significant disparities in income and wealth, with some communities facing chronic poverty and social exclusion. This inequality can lead to feelings of frustration and resentment, which can be exploited by criminal groups and political extremists to recruit members and gain support.

To address the challenges posed by crime and conflict in Northern Ireland, the book proposes a range of policy interventions. These include measures to reduce poverty and unemployment, improve access to education and healthcare, and promote social inclusion and cohesion. The book also calls for a more robust response to organized crime, including increased investment in law enforcement and the criminal justice system.

In conclusion, the book provides a comprehensive analysis of the relationship between crime and conflict in Northern Ireland since 1921. It highlights the complex and multifaceted nature of these issues, and emphasizes the need for a comprehensive and integrated approach to address them. By exploring the various factors that contribute to crime and conflict, and proposing policy interventions to address them, the book aims to contribute to a better understanding of these issues and to promote a more peaceful and prosperous future for Northern Ireland.

The book delves into the intricate relationship between crime and conflict in Northern Ireland since the establishment of the Northern Irish state in 1921. While there has been a substantial body of research dedicated to examining Northern Ireland's political divisions and the devastating effects of the Troubles, the connection between these factors and crime has remained relatively overlooked. This study aims to shed light on this overlooked aspect, exploring the various ways in which crime and conflict interact and influence each other in the context of Northern Ireland.

The book begins by examining the historical background of Northern Ireland, including the partition of Ireland in 1921, the rise of paramilitary groups, and the outbreak of the Troubles in the 1960s. It then explores the various factors that contribute to crime in Northern Ireland, such as poverty, unemployment, social exclusion, and political marginalization. The book also looks at the impact of conflict on crime, including the use of violence as a means of coercion and control, the displacement of populations, and the breakdown of social institutions.

One of the key findings of the book is that crime and conflict in Northern Ireland are deeply intertwined, with one often leading to the other. For example, the Troubles led to significant displacement of populations, which in turn increased crime rates in some areas. Similarly, the presence of paramilitary groups and organized crime networks can be traced back to the conflict, as they sought to exploit the power vacuum created by the breakdown of the state.

The book also highlights the role that social and economic inequality plays in perpetuating crime and conflict. In Northern Ireland, there are significant disparities in income and wealth, with some communities facing chronic poverty and social exclusion. This inequality can lead to feelings of frustration and resentment, which can be exploited by criminal groups and political extremists to recruit members and gain support.

To address the challenges posed by crime and conflict in Northern Ireland, the book proposes a range of policy interventions. These include measures to reduce poverty and unemployment, improve access to education and healthcare, and promote social inclusion and cohesion. The book also calls for a more robust response to organized crime, including increased investment in law enforcement and the criminal justice system.

In conclusion, the book provides a comprehensive analysis of the relationship between crime and conflict in Northern Ireland since 1921. It highlights the complex and multifaceted nature of these issues, and emphasizes the need for a comprehensive and integrated approach to address them. By exploring the various factors that contribute to crime and conflict, and proposing policy interventions to address them, the book aims to contribute to a better understanding of these issues and to promote a more peaceful and prosperous future for Northern Ireland.

ISBN-13: 9781782055730