The Good Friday Agreement, also known as the Belfast Agreement, was a historical accord signed in 1998 between the British and Irish governments, as well as the political parties and groups in Northern Ireland. It brought peace to the long-running conflict between the Protestant unionists and Catholic nationalists in the region. Here are five facts about this significant agreement.

1. The Good Friday Agreement was the result of a long process of negotiations and consultations between various parties. The talks started in 1996 and lasted for over two years, involving representatives from local political parties, the British and Irish governments, and international facilitators. The discussions covered issues such as power-sharing, disarmament, prisoner releases, and human rights.

2. The agreement was approved by referendums in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, as well as by the UK parliament. Over 70% of voters in Northern Ireland and 94% in the Republic of Ireland supported the agreement. The agreement recognized Northern Ireland`s status as part of the UK but also affirmed the principle of consent, meaning that any change in the region`s constitutional status could only happen with the majority`s agreement.

3. The Good Friday Agreement established a devolved government in Northern Ireland, with power-sharing between the unionist and nationalist parties. The government consists of a First Minister and a Deputy First Minister, drawn from the two largest parties. The agreement also created institutions to promote cross-border cooperation between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, such as the North-South Ministerial Council and the implementation bodies.

4. The Good Friday Agreement included provisions for decommissioning the paramilitary weapons held by various groups in Northern Ireland. The arms decommissioning process was monitored by an independent body, the Independent International Commission on Decommissioning (IICD). The agreement also led to the release of political prisoners, including those convicted of terrorist offenses.

5. The Good Friday Agreement has been praised for reducing violence and establishing a framework for peaceful political engagement in Northern Ireland. However, it has also faced challenges and criticisms, including around the implementation of some of its provisions and ongoing sectarian tensions in the region. Nevertheless, the agreement remains a landmark in the history of Northern Ireland and an example of successful conflict resolution through dialogue and compromise.