THE ROLE OF US IRISH DIASPORA DIPLOMACY IN THE PEACE PROCESS IN NORTHERN IRELAND

Abstract

The article examines the role of diaspora diplomacy of the US Irish diaspora in the resolution of the Northern Irish conflict. It has been updated that diasporas are influential actors on the world political stage and can play a significant role in maintaining the peace process in their historical homeland. Based on its relevance, the main goal of this study is to determine the mechanisms for involving the Irish diaspora in the peaceful resolution of the Northern Irish conflict. The Northern Irish conflict illustrates the possibility of attracting the potential of the diaspora and the mechanisms of diaspora diplomacy, which can be used by the diaspora to influence the peace process. It is shown that the historically difficult relations between Great Britain and Ireland have influenced the Irish diaspora in the United States, as well as its activities. It is argued that the large and influential Irish diaspora in the United States began to be viewed by Irish politicians as a resource that could be used to achieve Ireland’s diplomatic goals. The complex pattern of interactions between Irish nationalist politicians, the Irish-American diaspora, critical Irish-American politicians, and the US government demonstrates that diaspora engagement can promote peace even when it contradicts and challenges historical diplomatic relationships. It has been proven that diaspora organizations are able to provide both financial assistance and strong political support. The reasoned position of Irish politicians contributed to a change in the approaches and strategies of the American diaspora regarding the conflict in Northern Ireland. The new strategy has created opportunities for the United States to be involved in the peace process as a mediator, which has become a key factor in the transformation of the conflict. The Irish Diaspora structures and the US Irish lobby played an important role in this process. It is argued that under the influence of globalization, the transformation of the international order and the system of international relations, relations between Irish leaders, the Irish-American diaspora, Irish-American political elites and American diplomacy are being transformed. Therefore, transnational advocacy networks associated with the Irish diaspora and their influence on American diplomacy are of particular importance. It is proved that in the context of global transformations, countries should focus on communication and cooperation between a large number of participants in diaspora diplomacy. The general culture and activities of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs should be filled with trust, openness and transparency. Central place in the “new diplomacy” takes the idea that citizens play a more prominent role than before, which also applies to diasporas.