Northern Ireland is heading towards political limbo. With Sinn Féin becoming the majority party in Northern Ireland after the recent Assembly elections, the Democratic Unionist Party (the second largest party) are currently refusing to nominate a Deputy First Minister. Consequently,…
There is a case – made quietly by some, loudly by others, and passionately by a vocal few – for the dissolution of the United Kingdom. Few could deny it. It is among the most pressing problems of our time.…
The United Kingdom is a dishonest name for the English Empire. For that is what the United Kingdom is – and has been since the Act of Union. With support for independence at about half in Scotland, growing rapidly in…
Just a few months ago in December, many were celebrating the centenary of Northern Ireland’s existence and its place within the United Kingdom. The BBC exhibited a range of articles depicting its history, politics, and culture. Yet, in just over…
Reconciliation is a painful, challenging and ultimately fraught process. The choice and use of language are critical, and those seeking to help the process must tread with the utmost care. At first glance, the proposed ceremony to be hosted by…
It is an accepted fact that politics is a battle for power. It is as repugnant as it is pervasive. It is about as far removed from how most people live as to suggest that people are mere pieces on…
Background The Troubles describes a 30-year long period of sectarian violence that wrecked Northern Ireland (NI), leading to more than 3,500 deaths between 1968 and 1998 (though violence is still ongoing). The Troubles came to an end with the signing…
More than anything, May’s local and Holyrood elections highlight an increasing trend towards localism. While we know that actual appetite for Scottish independence has dropped in recent years, the SNP secured a fourth term in Holyrood and pro-independence parties also…