'Reel' outcomes? Assessing participatory filmmaking as a peacebuilding tool in Northern Ireland

Abstract

Violent conflict poses a significant threat to human rights. With the highest number of active conflicts taking place globally since World War II, the urgency to develop effective peacebuilding and reconciliation strategies is paramount. Research thus far has been limited on exploring the role of art-based approaches to peacebuilding, leaving research gap on whether these approaches are perceived as beneficial or not by those directly involved in them. This research aims to address this by investigating innovative arts-based approaches to peacebuilding, an at times overlooked area for fostering long-term reconciliation, especially in de-antagonising everyday relations between conflict parties or previously warring groups. This study delves into the potential of participatory film and video projects to bridge divided communities and create new narratives. Through analysing the perceptions of those involved in these projects, in particular based in Northern Ireland, this paper seeks to uncover effective practices for participatory filmmaking in post-conflict peacebuilding settings, and areas for improvement. This will provide important and much needed insights to inform policy, funding and peace building strategies, providing a vital contribution to minimising the potential for violent conflict, and therefore risk to human rights. Keywords Peacebuilding, post-conflict, reconciliation, arts, participatory video, participatory filmmaking, Northern Ireland