This event will present work by researchers at Queen’s University that uses the theories and methods of political science and social psychology in order to help community relations in Northern Ireland. A series of talks will be followed by a roundtable discussion with Dr Paul Nolan, the author of the Peace Monitoring report, and representatives of the Community Relations Council.

The short talks will be introduced by Professor Orla Muldoon of the University of Limerick, who has completed extensive research into the psychological mechanisms underpinning intergroup relations and identity in Ireland. The presentations will focus on Citizen’s Assemblies as a potential form of democratic decision-making, inter-community trust, the role of police in Northern Ireland, and the ‘Northern Irish’ national identity.

This event will appeal to anyone with a general interest in local politics and how social scientific theories can inform the real-world practice of promoting harmonious relations.

For further information and to register, please email Kevin McNicholl at Queen’s University Belfast.