Sectarianism and separation in Northern Ireland: a perspective-based evaluation on the contribution of youth work

Abstract

Research on the conflict in Northern Ireland that focuses on young people and education
has been approached from a mostly formal education analysis. My research study fills
this void by putting a lens on the role and contribution of youth work (informal education)
in addressing sectarianism and separation through an evaluative perspective-based study.
Some writers have hinted at many shortcomings within the youth work approach and this
lack of certainty on the role and contribution of youth work has informed the direction of
my exploratory research study (Morrow, 2004; Millken, 2015).

This research provides a platform for a contemporary review of youth work and peacebuilding
by practitioners within the youth work sector by exploring their insights and
perspectives based on their lived work experiences. Using qualitative methodologies,
within an interpretivist paradigm, and specifically a perspective-seeking evaluative
framework, the research gathered perspectives through five focussed workshops with
youth work-related practitioners in making a qualitative assessment of the effectiveness
of youth work in addressing sectarianism and separation. Multiple perspectives provide a
conclusive evidence-base which can inform policy and strategy within Education and the
Youth Sector. Primary data gathered through four focus groups with young people further
provided another dimension to the study, by shedding light on how young people
experience or perceive sectarianism and separation.

The findings present a foundation of evidence which support the case for fore-fronting
youth work as a contributor in addressing sectarianism and separation. A framework and
model ‘Developing an Agenda for Peace through Youth Work’ has been proposed that is
aligned to findings and consistent citations by those within the profession.

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Identifiers

ORCID for Marcus Grace: orcid.org/0000-0002-1949-1765

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