Empire 245. Inside The Good Friday Agreement with Alastair Campbell
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Apr 9, 2025 
Alastair Campbell, the lead strategist for Tony Blair’s New Labour government, shares firsthand insights into the negotiation of the Good Friday Agreement. He discusses the pivotal moments in 1998 that made peace possible amidst The Troubles, the contrasting approaches of key figures like John Hume and Gerry Adams, and the unexpected challenges, including trust issues and the emotional stakes involved. Campbell also reflects on the agreement's legacy and its implications for resolving global conflicts, showcasing the transformative power of dialogue and collaboration.
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Hand of History
- Alastair Campbell recalls Tony Blair's famous "hand of history" quote at Hillsborough Castle.
- Campbell and Jonathan Powell initially thought the quote was corny and questioned Blair about it.
Key Players - Hume and Adams
- John Hume's optimism, even in difficult times, was crucial for the peace process.
- Gerry Adams and Martin McGuinness operated as a team, with Adams being the strategist and McGuinness more straightforward.
Blair's Strength
- Tony Blair's ability to understand and explain all parties' positions was a key strength.
- He could repackage Trimble's requests without the baggage that triggered negative reactions from other sides.