Peace Processes in Northern Ireland and Turkey: Rethinking Conflict Resolution

This book challenges the notion of conflict resolution in the Northern Irish and Turkish Kurdish peace processes, suggesting that ethno-nationalist conflicts are too complex to be resolved solely through official negotiations. It incorporates fieldwork carried out until 2015 and presents an innovative framework for conflict resolution processes.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 31 August 2022
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

This book delves into the complexities of conflict resolution in the Northern Irish and Turkish Kurdish peace processes, two far-reaching ethno-nationalist conflicts that emerged in the post-Cold War era. Through extensive fieldwork conducted until 2015, Aytac Kad?o?lu offers a comprehensive analysis of these conflicts during significant peace attempts, ranging from early secret talks and semi-official initiatives to multilateral and internationalized conflict resolution processes involving not only the main armed protagonists but also independent third parties. As Brexit rekindles discussions around the border of Northern Ireland and the ongoing repercussions of the Syrian civil war on the dynamics of the Kurdish conflict, these two cases assume heightened importance in the study of conflict resolution. In critically assessing existing literature, this book presents an innovative framework for conflict resolution processes, arguing that ethno-nationalist conflicts are too complex to be resolved solely through official negotiations.

The book begins by examining the historical backgrounds and political contexts of the Northern Irish and Turkish Kurdish conflicts, highlighting the factors that contributed to their emergence and persistence. It then explores the various peace processes undertaken in these regions, including the Good Friday Agreement in Northern Ireland and the Abdullah Öcalan-led peace talks in Turkey. Kad?o?lu analyzes the successes and challenges of these processes, highlighting the role of key actors, such as political leaders, negotiators, and grassroots organizations, in shaping the outcomes.

One of the key insights of the book is that ethno-nationalist conflicts are characterized by deep-seated divisions and complex identities. Official negotiations alone cannot address these underlying issues, which require a more comprehensive approach. Kad?o?lu proposes an innovative framework for conflict resolution that incorporates elements of social psychology, cultural understanding, and power dynamics. He suggests that conflict resolution processes should focus on building trust, promoting dialogue, and addressing the underlying grievances of all parties involved.

The book also highlights the importance of independent third parties in conflict resolution processes. By mediating and facilitating negotiations, these parties can help break the deadlock and promote a more inclusive and sustainable peace. Kad?o?lu provides examples of successful third-party interventions in the Northern Irish and Turkish Kurdish peace processes, such as the role of the United Nations in Northern Ireland and the European Union in Turkey.

In conclusion, this book offers a valuable contribution to the study of conflict resolution by challenging the conventional approaches and providing a fresh perspective on ethno-nationalist conflicts. It is particularly relevant in the current political climate, where the complexities of international relations and the persistence of conflicts require innovative solutions. By incorporating fieldwork, social psychology, and a comprehensive framework, Kad?o?lu offers a practical guide for policymakers, negotiators, and grassroots organizations seeking to promote peace and stability in conflict-ridden regions.

Weight: 476g
Dimension: 156 x 234 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474479332