We were delighted to welcome Senator George J. Mitchell to the Institute to host a Masterclass with Postgraduate Students on Wednesday 25 September.

In an engaging and inspiring session, the students posed a number of questions to gain insight from the Senator on a range of topics including non violent communication, political violence and identity, the role of mediators and international actors in supporting civic society initiatives in post conflict contexts and, in the context of Northern Ireland and Colombia, how illegal activity of armed dissident groups and crime gangs impacts on peace agreements.

The Senator generously shared his extensive experience of his involvement in peace negotiations across the world.  The students gained his perspective on the current Israel-Palestine conflict and insight from his experience of drafting the Mitchell Report in 2001 and his role as Special Envoy to the Middle East in the period 2009-2011.

The students learned about the complexities of the negotiations in establishing the Good Friday Agreement, the importance of identity for each of the parties involved and the challenges of policing and establishing an independent police commission in Northern Ireland, as part of the Agreement.  There was also discussion on whether the peace and reconciliation process in Northern Ireland is threatened by the rise of Far Right and anti-immigration rhetoric, as highlighted with the recent riots here and across the United Kingdom.

Mitchell Institute Director Professor Richard English commented:

"It was wonderful to welcome Senator Mitchell back to the Institute, and for students to engage with him in this way and to learn from his experience, insights and wisdom."

Doctoral Scholar Kathryn Cribbin commented:

"It was an incredible privilege to attend a Masterclass with Senator George J. Mitchell.  Hearing first hand from him about his experience of chairing the peace negotiations was incredible and really reinforced what an amazing achievement it was and still is. His reflections on the importance of listening, even when it seems difficult, really resonated with me, as well as his comments on the role of social media in conflict as well as the personalities of leaders on resolution."

Doctoral Scholar Evie Cawte commented:

"I found Senator Mitchell’s visit very inspirational in a time whereby peace and reconciliation are so important. He was a very humble individual, but never shied away from a question. Overall, an honour to have witnessed."