Cross-border Cooperation

This paper examines the history of cross-border cooperation in Ireland. It discusses the historic tensions following 1921. During the conflict the UK and Irish governments, despite challenges, did cooperate in the context of security and peace initiatives, and also developed relationships within the EEC. The EEC (later EU) provided supports for cross-border cooperation while the Belfast Good Friday Agreement created institutions to foster North-South and East-West cooperation.

Brexit and the politics around the Protocol have upset this. The Protocol addresses the unique situation on the island of Ireland, Article 11 requiring the Protocol to be implemented and applied to secure the conditions for cooperation. However, the DUP has expressed its opposition to the Protocol by boycotting the North South Ministerial Council. Amidst this tension there are causes for optimism with support for the PEACE PLUS programme, new initiatives on a Shared Island and an all-island Women’s Forum.