The Good Friday Agreement
An end to violence and a historic opportunity for a new beginning
The Good Friday Agreement was signed in Belfast on 10 April 1998, bringing to an end three decades of violence, and establishing inclusive, democratic power sharing institutions.
The Agreement transformed relationships across these islands and gave us new ways to work together and understand one another – within Northern Ireland, East-West, and North South. This framework remains at the heart of how the Government of Ireland approaches its responsibilities as a co-guarantor of the Agreement.
The Good Friday Agreement celebrated its 25th birthday in 2023: an occasion to renew our commitment to peace and reconciliation and to fully realising its promise, values and vision.
About the Northern Ireland Peace Process
The Northern Ireland Peace Process was possible only through ground-breaking leadership from across the traditions of the island, from the Irish and British Governments, from our international partners, from civil society, and from ordinary people, all insisting on a peaceful, democratic future.
[Pictured: Taoiseach Bertie Ahern (left), US Senator George Mitchell (centre) and UK Prime Minister Tony Blair (right) signing the agreement in Belfast on 10 April 1998]
Exhibition
A new beginning
Thanks to the Good Friday Agreement, signed on 10 April 1998, an entire generation on the island of Ireland has grown up free from the shadow of violence.
Learn more about the story of peace in Northern Ireland through our digital exhibition, commissioned for the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement.
