Jonathan Powell, the principal negotiator in the Irish peace process from 1997 to 2007, has been appointed as an Honorary Visiting Professor in the Institute of Irish Studies.
Jonathan, who served as chief of staff to Tony Blair from 1994 – 2007, was instrumental in bringing about a lasting peace to Northern Ireland’s centuries old conflict.
He subsequently published `Great Hatred Little Room: Making Peace in Northern Ireland’ which gave a personal account of the negotiations and made a BBC television programme -`Secret Diplomat’ – about his experiences.
Professor Marianne Elliot, Director of the Institute of Irish Studies, said: “Jonathan Powell was the key British player in bringing about peace in Northern Ireland and has gone on to help other societies emerging from conflict.
Jonathan said: “I am thrilled to be asked to join the Institute of Irish Studies as an Honorary Visiting Professor. My role in the Northern Ireland peace process was, at least in retrospect, the most exciting and most satisfying achievement of my working life. I hope the lessons I learned during that process can contribute to the outstanding work of The Institute.”
During Tony Blair’s leadership, Jonathan was responsible for coordinating all political and non-political work at No. 10 Downing Street. He was the only senior member of staff to serve with Blair from the beginning to end of his time as leader of the Labour Party and was involved in all of the major events of those thirteen years including three successive election victories.
Since leaving No 10 Downing Street, Jonathan has used his experience in Northern Ireland to help with a series of conflicts. In 2011, he established Inter Mediate, an NGO dedicated to conflict resolution around the world, which is currently working on eight conflicts.
