The future of Northern Ireland : Protestant and unionist identity in the post Brexit era

Sammanfattning

This study examines Protestant and unionist identity in post-Brexit Northern Ireland, with particular focus on identity, intergroup relations and constitutional uncertainty. Through a thematic analysis of previous academic research, the study explores how identity continues to shape political and social life despite the reduction in violence following the Good Friday Agreement. The findings suggest that Protestant and unionist identity remain closely connected to sovereignty, political belonging and historical continuity within Northern Irish society. The study further demonstrates that Brexit intensified debates surrounding Irish unity, borders and constitutional belonging, contributing to increased uncertainty within unionist communities. In addition, the findings indicate that segregation, mistrust and historical memory continue to influence intergroup relations between Protestant and Catholic communities. Using Social Identity Theory as a theoretical framework, the study concludes that identity and perceptions of group continuity remain central to understanding contemporary Northern Ireland and the challenges connected to reconciliation and long-term peacebuilding.