The Belfast/Good Friday Agreement (1998)

The Belfast/Good Friday Agreement, signed in 1998, was a major peace agreement aimed at ending decades of conflict in Northern Ireland known as "The Troubles." The agreement involved multiple parties, including the British and Irish governments, and outlined a framework for political governance, civil rights, and disarmament of paramilitary groups. It established a devolved government and encouraged cooperation between communities. The agreement sought to promote peace and reconciliation between the mainly Protestant unionists, who favor remaining part of the UK, and the mainly Catholic nationalists, who seek a united Ireland. Its successful implementation has been crucial for Northern Ireland's stability.