ABSTRACT
In post-conflict societies the establishment of “shared” spaces can be transformative for divided communities. Northern Ireland is emerging from prolonged ethnonational struggle, but not yet at peace. This conflict culminated in an acute period of violence, known as “the Troubles,” that resulted in the loss of thousands of lives and a lasting legacy of residential and social segregation. While many “top-down” efforts to combat sectarian divisions in Northern Ireland proved unsuccessful, some grassroots peacebuilding organizations have been more efficacious. For example, Corrymeela, known as “Northern Ireland’s oldest peace center,” is dedicated to dismantling the spatial and social impacts of ethnonationalism. Through its intentionally designed “shared” spaces, the organization fosters peacebuilding through positive cross-communal engagements and skills-based training. Through this lens, this chapter examines how Corrymeela builds peace through spatial practices of cooperation, respect, and deep listening to foster “positive peace” in an otherwise divided society.
