Delegates hear how language can 'shape or wreck' peace

The way that language can shape or wreck peace deals came under scrutiny today at an international conference, entitled ‘When Words Collide’, at the University of Ulster’s Magee campus.

High profile speakers, including peace-builders, academics and researchers, spelt out their views to more than 100 participants from community, development and political groups on both sides of the border during three days of workshops which began on Thursday.

"The conference isn’t focusing on the idea of conflict. It is focusing on how we can use language for peace," said Professor Máiréad Nic Craith, Acting Director of the Academy for Irish Cultural Heritages, who is the conference convenor.

"The conference is exploring the problems that people have when they interpret words differently. Conflicting views on common words and phrases, or a radically varying understanding of the tone which they might imply, can upend the best-laid plans."

Keynote speakers at the opening session included Professor John Hume MP, who holds the Tip O’Neill Chair of Peace Studies at Magee and the Very Reverend Dr John Dunlop, a former Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland who is a leading conciliator in the province’s search for a lasting peace.

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