Economist Podcasts Hard pact to follow: the Good Friday Agreement at 25
Apr 11, 2023
The podcast dives into the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, celebrating its role in reducing violence while confronting current political dysfunction in Northern Ireland. It discusses President Biden's visit, unraveling the complexities of modern Irish unity. The transition from Jenner's smallpox vaccine to today's mRNA technology is examined, highlighting advancements in delivery methods. Lastly, the legacy of Picasso is explored, revealing how personal controversies influence perceptions of his art in today's society.
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The Troubles: A Personal Tragedy
- In 1976, ten Protestant workers were murdered in Northern Ireland.
- Sammy Heenan, 12, found his father dead, a victim of the IRA.
Good Friday Agreement: A Hope for Peace
- The Good Friday Agreement ended the Troubles by establishing a power-sharing government.
- This aimed to accommodate both Unionists (Protestants) wanting to stay in the UK and Nationalists (Catholics) wanting to join Ireland.
Power-Sharing: A Double-Edged Sword
- The Good Friday Agreement's power-sharing model, while inclusive, is cumbersome.
- The system of mutual vetoes creates a dysfunctional government.