Independent Commissions and Contentious Issues in Post-Good Friday Agreement Northern Ireland (Rethinking Peace and Conflict Studies)

This book asks how independent commissions helped to overcome difficulties during the implementation phase of the Good Friday Agreement. These independent groups worked to resolve issues which threatened to derail the peace process, including the reform of policing, the decommissioning of paramilitary weapons, the monitoring of ceasefires, dealing with the past conflict, and the issue of human rights. Each chapter provides an in-depth analysis of the work of a different group finding that the commissions engaged in a broad range of activities. Drawing on the lessons of Northern Ireland the book demonstrates the importance of balancing local and international involvement, the inclusion of expertise, and giving sufficient powers to such bodies. This volume appeals to academics and researchers in a range of disciplines such as politics, peace and conflict studies, international relations, and human rights law. It is of interest to readers who are interested in the Northern Ireland peace process and those seeking to understand how third parties can assist in the implementation of peace agreements. ZThis richly original account of the role of independent commissions in resolving some of the most difficult and controversial issues in the Northern Ireland Peace Process provides an important and timely analysis that greatly enhances our understanding of the role of such commissions. It highlights the way in which they facilitate ongoing involvement by the international community in the implementation of peace settlements and outlines the way in which they play a mediating role between fiercely opposed views. This much-needed study helps to set a new agenda for research on this important but neglected aspect of peace processes.y Niall O'Dochartaigh, National University of Ireland Galway, Republic of Ireland Front Matter....Pages i-xv Introduction: Contentious Issues and the Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement....Pages 1-28 Independent Commission on Policing....Pages 29-56 Independent International Commission on Decommissioning....Pages 57-85 Independent Monitoring Commission....Pages 87-117 The Consultative Group on the Past....Pages 119-147 The Human Rights Commission....Pages 149-176 Conclusion....Pages 177-191 Back Matter....Pages 193-236