The union endured, referendum

• Means by which the union was saved


  1. Political negotiations

  2. Signing of the Good Friday Agreement in 1998

  3. Continued recognition of Northern Ireland as part of the UK by UK and Irish governments

  4. Efforts to address grievances and promote reconciliation between nationalist and unionist communities
• The union remains fragile due to ongoing political tensions, demographic shifts, and unresolved issues related to identity and governance
• Fragility of the union


  Could affect Stormont by impacting the ability of nationalist and unionist parties to work together effectively in the power-sharing government
• If political divisions intensify or if there are significant changes in public opinion regarding Northern Ireland's constitutional status


  Could lead to instability or even the collapse of Stormont
• Legal framework for a referendum on Irish unity


  • Outlined in the Good Friday Agreement
  • If it appears likely that a majority of voters in Northern Ireland would vote to reunify with Ireland, the UK government must call a referendum on the issue
  • Specific criteria and procedures must be followed, including the agreement of both the UK and Irish governments
• "Potential unification," while not on the horizon at present, is a scenario to consider in the future due to various factors
• Factors that may lead to potential unification


  • Changes in demographics
  • Shifts in public opinion
  • Developments in the relationship between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK and Ireland
• While there is currently no imminent prospect of a referendum on Irish unity, the possibility remains a topic of discussion and debate, especially given the complexities of Northern Ireland's political landscape and its historical context