Decoupling Nonviolent Resistance and Political Violence in Northern Ireland

• In Event: 172 - Section on Peace, War and Social Conflict Roundtables (one-hour). Table 01. Peace and Peacebuilding

Abstract

Scholars have frequently asserted that while nonviolent civil resistance is likely to initially encounter violent reactions by authorities and opponents, over time it leads to a reduction in political violence as well as contributes to the establishment of more democratic, stable, prosperous, and peaceful societies. Yet this is often not the case with ethno-nationalist contention. This paper describes and interprets why nonviolent political behaviors have often resulted in political violence both prior to and during the current peace process in Northern Ireland. Strategic dilemmas facing authorities in responding to flags and parades highlight the difficulty in decoupling nonviolent and violent forms of contention. The paper ends with a discussion featuring recommendations for creating conditions where nonviolent contention does not contribute to the resurgence of political violence.

Author

• Gregory Maney, Hofstra University