ADVANCING GLOBAL UNDERSTANDING OF TERRORISM AND POLITICAL VIOLENCE
Queen’s University Belfast is at the forefront of global research efforts to understand and address the complexities of terrorism and political violence. By combining academic rigor with real-world application, the university provides critical insights into the causes of violence, the motivations of perpetrators, and pathways to sustainable peace. Central to this work is Professor Richard English, a world-renowned expert in political violence and terrorism studies, whose contributions have shaped both academic thought and practical policy development. Through its interdisciplinary approach, Queen’s is helping policymakers, security professionals, and peacebuilders create safer, more equitable societies.
Research Challenge
CONFRONTING THE COMPLEXITIES OF POLITICAL VIOLENCE: A GLOBAL IMPERATIVE
Terrorism and political violence represent enduring global challenges, threatening stability, human rights, and development. Governments and international organizations grapple with balancing immediate security concerns against long-term solutions that address the underlying conditions fostering violence. A lack of nuanced understanding often undermines efforts to design effective policies, while political and social contexts can complicate peacebuilding.
Queen’s University Belfast recognizes the need for evidence-based research to navigate these challenges. The institution leverages its unique history—set against the backdrop of Northern Ireland’s own turbulent past—to provide a global lens on conflict resolution and counter-terrorism.
Our Approach
MULTIDISCIPLINARY INSIGHTS INTO POLITICAL VIOLENCE AND PEACEBUILDING
At the heart of Queen’s contributions is a multidisciplinary research framework addressing the various dimensions of political violence. Key focuses include:
Understanding motivations: Studies delve into the ideological, political, and psychological factors that drive individuals and groups to engage in terrorism.
Patterns of violence: Analysis of historical and contemporary cases, including Northern Ireland, to identify trends and inform strategies.
Counter-terrorism strategies: Examination of policy effectiveness, emphasizing approaches that protect human rights while addressing root causes.
Peacebuilding: Drawing lessons from Northern Ireland’s peace process, researchers collaborate with international organizations and conflict-affected regions to foster reconciliation and reduce violence.
Professor English has been instrumental in advancing this agenda. His extensive body of work—spanning terrorism, nationalism, and conflict studies—includes critically acclaimed books such as Terrorism: How to Respond and Armed Struggle: The History of the IRA. English’s insights offer a deep understanding of terrorist organizations, the effectiveness of counter-terrorism policies, and the conditions necessary for peace.
The Senator George J. Mitchell Institute for Global Peace, Security and Justice, based at Queen’s, amplifies this work by fostering interdisciplinary collaboration among experts in law, politics, history, sociology, and international relations.
“Our research doesn’t just analyze terrorism; it dismantles myths, uncovers truths, and provides the evidence policymakers need to create lasting peace."
- Professor Richard English
What impact did it make?
DRIVING CHANGE: FROM POLICY TO PEACE
Queen’s University Belfast’s research has had profound local and global impact, bridging the gap between academia and practice:
Policy influence: Findings have shaped international counter-terrorism strategies, including those of the United Nations, NATO, and national governments.
Training and education: Queen’s hosts workshops and training programs for policymakers, security officials, and civil society leaders, equipping them with the tools to address political violence.
Conflict resolution expertise: The university has shared insights from Northern Ireland’s peace process with regions such as Colombia, the Middle East, and South Asia, supporting efforts to reduce violence and build inclusive societies.
Public engagement: Professor English and colleagues at Queen’s regularly contribute to global media and public discourse, offering expert analysis on terrorism and peacebuilding developments.
Our impact
Impact related to the UN Sustainable Development Goals
Learn more about Queen’s University’s commitment to nurturing a culture of sustainability and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through research and education.
