Transposition and Adaptation of Models in Post-Conflict Northern Ireland: The Personal Experience of Brandon Hamber

Abstract

In deeply-divided societies coming out of conflict the role of mediators from the “middle-ground” according to John Paul Lederach’s theory is an asset. In Northern Ireland, the period following the Belfast Agreement of 1998 saw opportunities for such people to exert influence on policy making concerning contentious issues such as dealing with the past and reconciliation. This article aims at highlighting the role of Brandon Hamber, whose experience in South Africa helped shape his involvement in Northern Ireland. His position as both an outsider and insider provides an example of how policies are designed in transitional societies.

Keywords

• Northern Ireland conflict
• policymaking
• cultural transfers
• civil society
• dealing with the past
• reconciliation