Brexit is rapidly approaching and one of the major concerns is how it will affect the Good Friday Agreement. The agreement, which was signed in 1998, put an end to decades of sectarian conflict in Northern Ireland, and helped establish peace.
The Good Friday Agreement was based on the principle of equality, and ensured that all Northern Irish citizens had equal rights. It also established an open border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, which was a significant step forward in promoting peace in the region.
However, Brexit has cast doubts over the future of the Good Friday Agreement. The UK`s decision to leave the European Union could potentially lead to the re-establishment of a `hard border` between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. This could lead to an increase in tensions, which could eventually lead to conflict.
The Good Friday Agreement established a power-sharing government in Northern Ireland, which has been successful in reducing conflict. However, this government is based on the assumption that Northern Ireland will be part of the European Union. If the UK leaves the EU, this could potentially lead to the collapse of the power-sharing government.
The UK`s decision to leave the EU could also have a negative impact on the economy of Northern Ireland. Northern Ireland currently receives significant financial support from the EU, and this support could disappear once the UK leaves the EU. This could lead to an increase in poverty and deprivation in the region, which could ultimately lead to instability.
In conclusion, Brexit could potentially have a negative impact on the Good Friday Agreement. The UK`s decision to leave the EU has cast doubts over the future of the power-sharing government in Northern Ireland, the open border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, and the economic prosperity of the region. The international community must remain vigilant and work to prevent any negative impact on the peace process in Northern Ireland.