The provided text discusses the International Fund for Ireland (IFI), an organization that funds projects aimed at promoting peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland and border counties.
here’s a breakdown of the key points:
IFI’s Mission: The IFI supports projects that address sectarianism and division,and also funds a “Peace Impact Program” targeting communities experiencing social deprivation that haven’t traditionally been involved in peace initiatives.
Examples of Funded Projects: The text mentions projects in Belfast and Derry, a youth engagement project in Milford, co. Donegal, and a social enterprise project connecting communities across the Irish border.
Funding Sources: Historically, the US government has been the largest contributor, with support also coming from the EU, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Irish and UK governments. IFI’s Impact: The IFI is credited with helping to lay the groundwork for the Belfast Agreement and is described as “the great unsung hero of the peace process.” Its success also inspired proposals for a similar peace fund in the Middle East. UK Government’s Contribution Withdrawal: The UK government has confirmed it is pulling its £1 million contribution for 2024-2025 due to budget cuts, stating it inherited a “challenging fiscal position.”
Irish Government’s Stance: The Department of foreign Affairs acknowledged the UK’s decision but noted that the UK had committed £4 million to the IFI’s current strategy, of which £3 million was received. They expressed hope that the UK would consider further funding for the IFI’s new strategy for 2026-2030. The Irish Government contributed €4 million to the IFI in 2025.
