The conference: ‘40 Years On: Reflecting on the Anglo-Irish Agreement’, took place at Riddel Hall and brought together speakers who were directly involved in the 1985 negotiations, as well as leading commentators and scholars. 

Hosted by Queen’s and in partnership with the John and Pat Hume Foundation, the Royal Irish Academy, and Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs, the one-day conference explored the agreement’s genesis, political context and enduring legacy. 

Panels throughout the day examined the diplomatic journey to the agreement, its international impact, and the lessons it offers for contemporary political relationships across these islands. 

Opening the conference, Professor Sir Ian Greer, President and Vice-Chancellor of Queen’s University Belfast, said: 

“At Queen’s, we are proud to provide a space where people can come together to reflect on our shared history, and to debate, challenge, and learn from the past. Hosting this conference at Queen’s is a powerful reminder of the role that dialogue, diplomacy and academic reflection play in shaping a better future. We are proud to convene voices from across the political and civic spectrum to examine the lessons of the past and the challenges that remain.”  

Former Tánaiste Dick Spring, who played a key role in the negotiations leading to the Agreement, said: 

“In 1985, the idea of the Irish and British Governments working together on Northern Ireland was revolutionary. Today, that spirit of cooperation continues to shape peace and progress. The Anglo-Irish Agreement showed what could be achieved when both governments recognised their shared responsibility, and their shared opportunity, to build a better future.” 

Professor Paul Arthur, Board Member of the John and Pat Hume Foundation said: 

“The John and Pat Hume Foundation is delighted to partner with QUB Mitchell Institute and Royal Irish Academy on this important conference to reflect on 40 years since the signing of the Anglo-Irish Agreement. Given the import of the Agreement, it is critical to explore the genesis of the Agreement and political reaction. 

“John Hume dedicated his political life to building peace through non-violence. The signing of the Anglo -Irish Agreement was a positive and an extraordinary accomplishment in the context of past animosity and misunderstanding. It offered the promise of a new beginning and an opportunity to build peace and prosperity. This conference will also reflect on the immediate reaction of unionist opposition to the Agreement, its alternative agenda and assess the long-term impact of the Agreement.” 

The conference featured a keynote address from Ambassador Nancy Soderberg, an in-conversation session with former Tánaiste Dick Spring, and panel discussions with diplomats, academics, figures from civic society, and many others. The day also included a moment of reflection for Remembrance. 

Today’s event will be followed by a companion event at the University of Cambridge later this month, extending the reflection on the Agreement’s historical and political impact. 

Media

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