Wednesday, September 5, 2007

Conflict Resolution...The Solution laid Bare

We are truly living in surreal times.

Yesterday's Belly Telly pondered:

"Conquering sectarianism: Can Ulster be a model for Iraq?"

"Ulster ... the blueprint to end sectarian violence in Iraq"

Hmmmm.....

"McGuinness held secret talks with Sunni and Shia factions"

Martin McGuinness?
That's Martin McGuinness the Godfather of Derry, the most religiously segregated city in western Europe?

I suppose you could argue that he and his cronies have succeeded in almost ending sectarian violence in his own city by chasing the prods across the river ( once they've finally sorted out the Fountain, then it'll be a 100% success), but I really think the Shia and Sunni militias in Baghdad are doing quite well on their own in cleansing out the city's remaining *conflict interfaces*, without any more advice from Marty.

What the Iraqis really need is a more imaginative way to raise awareness of sectarianism and the damage it can inflict on wider society.....

How about this idea....

A photographer has unveiled plans to recreate a classic Old Firm moment at Hampden - using nudes.

Alistair Devine is looking for nude volunteers to pose for the image which will celebrate a historic clash between Rangers and Celtic.


The new event, which aims to raise awareness of anti-sectarianism, has been scheduled for later this month.

In 1980, Mr Devine captured a famous scene of riots at an Old Firm Game at Hampden, with police on horses trying to halt fighting on the pitch.

Almost 30 years on, his Stripped Naked project will aim to shoot a scene of nude Rangers and Celtic fans meeting in perfect harmony on the pitch.


Might be a bit nippy trying it out up the Crumlin Rd, but still, that's what I call a "truly innovative approach to conflict resolution".*

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