Preliminary Reflections on Defunding the Police and Northern Ireland

• In Event: Policing and Community Security

Abstract

Related to the legacy of conflict in Northern Ireland, many communities have been (and remain) historically marginalised and mistrustful of state agencies, leading to the development of a robust civil sector that has actively contributed to building safety and peace. The recent transition to a post-Brexit context, however, has brought to light many lingering security concerns, renewing tensions and fears for many residents, despite the progress of the peace process. This study explores the role of informal actors in generating peace, safety, and security, shifting the focus from state institutions to local organisations and individuals who have largely been overlooked within this field. In particular, the paper highlights the ‘informal’ ways in which civil society and local communities along the border produce safety and wellbeing, emphasising the centrality of such actors in de-escalating conflict, building peaceful relationships, and strengthening democratic engagement with formal institutions. It has also raised questions about the role of police in society in Northern Ireland and led to the exploration of debates about defunding the police. This paper will offer some preliminary reflections on defunding the police in Northern Ireland.

Authors

• Amanda Kramer, Queen's University Belfast

• Allely Albert, Queen's University Belfast