The Good Friday Agreement, also known as the Belfast Agreement, is a historic peace agreement that was signed on Good Friday, April 10, 1998, between the British and Irish governments, as well as political parties in Northern Ireland. The agreement put an end to the decades-long conflict known as The Troubles, which had claimed the lives of more than 3,500 people.
The full document of the Good Friday Agreement is a comprehensive and complex agreement that outlines the necessary political and institutional changes required for peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland. The agreement is a detailed and lengthy document, consisting of 35 pages and 19 annexes, covering various aspects of Northern Ireland`s governance, human rights, policing, justice, and ecumenism.
The Good Friday Agreement`s core provisions include:
1. The establishment of a power-sharing government in Northern Ireland, consisting of representatives of both unionist and nationalist parties.
2. The creation of the Northern Ireland Assembly, a devolved legislature, which gives the people of Northern Ireland greater control over their affairs.
3. The recognition of the right of the people of Northern Ireland to identify as Irish, British, or both.
4. The establishment of a Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission, which is tasked with promoting and protecting human rights in Northern Ireland.
5. The establishment of a Northern Ireland Policing Board, which oversees the work of the Police Service of Northern Ireland and ensures that it is accountable to the people it serves.
6. The recognition of the role of the Irish government in Northern Ireland`s affairs, in particular, the establishment of a North-South Ministerial Council, which facilitates cross-border cooperation and engagement.
The Good Friday Agreement has had a significant impact on the political landscape of Northern Ireland and the broader United Kingdom. The agreement has helped to maintain peace and stability in Northern Ireland, allowing for greater political cooperation and understanding between the different communities.
The full document of the Good Friday Agreement is an essential resource for anyone looking to understand the complex political and historical factors that led to the conflict in Northern Ireland and the steps that were taken to bring it to an end. The agreement is available online and can be accessed through various government websites and archives.
In conclusion, the Good Friday Agreement is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the power of diplomacy and political will in resolving long-standing conflicts. The full document of the agreement remains a valuable resource for researchers, policymakers, and anyone interested in the history and politics of Northern Ireland.