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Identity narrative and constitutional flux. Nationalist and Unionist civil society perspectives on Irish unification.

Hartley, Ciaran (2025) Identity narrative and constitutional flux. Nationalist and Unionist civil society perspectives on Irish unification. PhD thesis, Dublin City University.

Abstract
This study investigates the evolving identity narratives articulated by Nationalist and Unionist civil society actors in the context of ongoing constitutional uncertainty and debates around Irish unity. It situates these narratives within the broader framework of post-Brexit political realignment and the increasing salience of constitutional change across the island of Ireland. Drawing on qualitative data gleaned through a semi-structured interview approach with civil society actors, along with a historical and political analysis, the research explores how questions of belonging, sovereignty, and constitutional fluctuation is being mediated. The paper argues that both Nationalist and Unionist actors, and others, are engaged in processes of re-articulation and boundary-making as they confront the prospect—real or perceived—of a constitutional referendum. Nationalist narratives tend to frame Irish unity as a pathway to reconciliation and social justice, embedding their visions within a discourse of inclusivity and pluralism. In contrast, many Unionist narratives express anxiety over potential marginalisation and cultural erosion, often invoking themes of preservation and acceptance of current realities. This analysis reveals that civil society actors play a pivotal role in shaping public discourse around constitutional issues, not passively, but as proactive agents that aid the construction political meaning. The paper highlights the strategic use of narrative framing to mobilize support, bridge community divides, or resist constitutional transformation. It also examines the limitations of dialogue in a post-conflict context as well as the potential for new discursive spaces to emerge that transcend binary identity categories. By centering on the perspectives of non-state actors, this research contributes to a more nuanced understanding of constitutional flux. It underscores the importance of identity construction in periods of political transition and enriches debates on the democratic legitimacy of constitutional change processes in deeply divided societies.
Metadata
Item Type:Thesis (PhD)
Date of Award:27 August 2025
Refereed:No
Supervisor(s):Doyle, John
Subjects:Social Sciences > International relations
Social Sciences > Political science
Social Sciences > Ethnicity
Social Sciences > Identity
DCU Faculties and Centres:DCU Faculties and Schools > Faculty of Humanities and Social Science
DCU Faculties and Schools > Faculty of Humanities and Social Science > School of Law and Government
Research Institutes and Centres > DCU Conflict Institute
Use License:This item is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License. View License
Funders:Research Ireland, Dublin City University
ID Code:31475
Deposited On:25 Nov 2025 15:04 by John Doyle . Last Modified 25 Nov 2025 15:04
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