Written by: Nevena Šarenac
The European Commission organized the Conference “Bringing Divided Communities Together-Sharing the Experience of the EU Peace Programme” in Brussels. Its goal was to explore how peace-building techniques developed in Northern Ireland and the Border Region of Ireland could be adapted to the situation in Europe and elsewhere.
At the invitation of the organizers, the “Sarajevo Times” team stayed in Brussels from 30-31 January and participated in the Conference. They had the opportunity to speak with the European Commissioner for Regional Policy Johannes Hahn.
“Recent events have shown that the threat of violence persists, even as we work for a lasting peace. But, I believe the people of Northern Ireland have shown their will to put an end to the violence – and that this determination will prevail. Northern Ireland has a wealth of experience in peace building that can be of use to others. I am pleased that the authorities in Northern Ireland are going ahead with plans to build a Peace Building”, said Commissioner Hahn.
Countries that continue to face these problems can use the models that Northern Ireland used to build peace. Thus, during the Conference three models were presented that have helped the former foes to begin to work together and to cooperate with one another. The NI Foundation is a project that tries to overcome sectarianism and segregation in local communities in Northern Ireland. Theatre of Witness is another model based on the performance of real life stories from different areas, and embodied by the citizens themselves. Football is the third model that is committed to addressing sectarianism and racism through football matches, work with Irish league clubs, fans and volunteers.
“Every divided community has its own story and will have to find its own way to reconciliation. But the experience of the PEACE programme may be a source of ideas for others, or, just as important, a source of confidence that rifts can heal”, he said.
In an interview with journalists from the Western Balkans, including the team from our portal, Commissioner Hahn said that countries in the Western Balkans could use the experience in Northern Ireland in resolving conflict and building peace.
‘’A parallel can be drawn because ethnic conflicts do exist, and Northern Ireland also has experience with different religious groups. We wish to demonstrate how best to deal with these problems and how to foster reconciliation. The purpose of the conference is for Northern Ireland to provide the opportunity to tell a positive story, because we are seeing a negative image of the country. Yet, many positive things are happening. Peace-building techniques from Northern Ireland cannot be directly copied in the Western Balkans, but it is beneficial to have an exchange of experiences’’, said Commissioner Hahn.
Commenting on the effects of Croatia’s accession to the EU on BiH, Commissioner Hahn said that this would lead to a situation where BiH is placed within the EU’s periphery in a positive way.
‘’The mere fact that BiH will share a border with the EU is the only discussion that we are facing. That will definitely raise awareness from both sides of the border-I am thinking of the EU and BiH. I think that concrete activities will improve the situation’’, stated Commissioner Hahn, among other things.
He commented on the process of BiH’s accession to the EU, nothing that it is necessary for citizens to have an increased interest and to exert pressure on BiH politicians, because the benefits of EU membership are visible.
‘’Look at the neighbors, and you will see an increased level of well-being. There are more opportunities for young people to study wherever they want, without a visa and permission. There is mobility and opportunities for employment…” said Commissioner Hahn.
