Former U.S. President Barack Obama was awarded an honorary degree from Queen's University Belfast (QUB) on Tuesday, where he praised Northern Ireland's progress and encouraged the next generation to foster a lasting peace.
Receiving the doctorate, Obama reflected on the Good Friday Agreement, calling it "a shining example of what can happen when people put aside old wounds and choose peace." He noted that while peace has transformed opportunities in Northern Ireland, its benefits must be shared universally.
Obama, who last visited Northern Ireland in 2013, observed the significant challenges faced by young people today but urged them to remain hopeful. "As we have seen in many countries, including in my home country the United States, peace and democracy are not inevitable," he stated. "They have to be chosen, again and again."
During the ceremony, Obama heard from Emma McAllister, a first-year Law with Politics student who participated in a cross-community program that provided leadership and educational opportunities for young people from the Ardoyne and Shankill areas. "That's what peace makes possible. And it's what Queen's and the supporters in this room are helping to make real," Obama remarked after her presentation.
In his closing remarks, Obama challenged the students, urging them to "keep showing the way."
Queen's President and Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Ian Greer congratulated Obama, stating, "We are privileged to welcome President Obama to Queen's. His commitment to peace, dialogue and public service has left a lasting impact around the world, and particularly here in Northern Ireland."
Queen's University awards honorary degrees to individuals who have achieved distinction or provided significant service in fields such as business, the arts, education, and medicine. Past recipients include boxer Carl Frampton, poet Seamus Heaney, former Irish President Mary McAleese, and playwright Brian Friel.