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Iulia E. Padeanu
Introduction
Post-conflict peace-building is a complex process that includes elements
of reconciliation, intergroup forgiveness, cooperation and collaboration
(See Tam et al 2008: 303-320). Emerging from a period of violence and
intergroup tensions, conflicting communities tend to segregate, distrust
each other, and often hold on to misinformed opinions that entrench
prejudices. This can further lead to marginalisation and inhibits the development of an integrated society. Ultimately, to aid the process of reconciliation and peace-building, individuals and communities must begin
to forgive, trust and collaborate (See Hewstone et al 2008: 199-226). As
can be observed in Northern Ireland, where the two major communities
refuse to work together, groups continue to distrust and dislike one another, hindering cooperation and impeding the development of a shared
future (Tam et al 2008: 303-320).
Although unique in some ways, the experience of post-conflict
peace-building in Northern Ireland serves as an example of how difficult
the process of reconciliation can be and highlights some of the most
effective ways to overcome the challenges associated with this process.
The situation in post-conflict Northern Irish society is an illustration of
the distinct psychological elements of the reconciliation process (see Tam
et al 2008: 303-320). It can help to highlight the necessary steps in the
process of reconciliation, which requires a change in the often “well-entrenched beliefs and feelings about the out-group, their in-group, and
the relationship between the two” (Hewstone et al 2008: 200). One of
the most effective ways to challenge those beliefs, break down walls of
separation and prejudice, and ultimately begin the process of reconciliation is through planned, managed intergroup contact. Based on Gordon
Allport’s original ‘contact theory’, this managed approach builds on the
notion that conflicting groups can move beyond the conflict and their
troubled past by having the opportunity to meet and get to know one
another. This in turn can increase trust, dispel hardened misconceptions,