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Obama Accepts Honorary Doctorate From Queen's University
Obama said the Good Friday Agreement showed peace can endure, and urged young people to keep building an inclusive future.
- On Tuesday, former United States President Barack Obama received an honorary doctorate from Queen's University Belfast. Queen's President and Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Ian Greer presented the award, citing Obama's commitment to peace, dialogue, and public service.
- The visit marks Obama's first return to Belfast since 2013, when he addressed young people at Waterfront Hall. During Tuesday's ceremony, he reflected on Northern Ireland's progress since the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, calling it a "shining example" of choosing peace.
- First-Year Law with Politics student Emma McAllister presented the doctorate, noting Obama's inspiration for youth. The former president praised R-CITY initiatives in Ardoyne and Shankill, stating "that's what peace makes possible."
- Following the ceremony, Obama addressed a packed O2 Arena in a conversation hosted by journalist Susan McKay. He urged the crowd to "insist that we can do better than we're doing right now" amid global challenges.
- Addressing global instability, Obama admitted he is "not as hopeful as I want to be in the short term" regarding Gaza. He emphasized the need for an "impulse towards kindness" to counter tribal divides.
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Obama in Belfast to receive honorary doctorate from Queen's University Belfast
Former US President Barack Obama has been awarded an honorary doctorate by Queen's University Belfast, where he praised Northern Ireland's progress and challenged the next generation to continue building a peaceful and inclusive future.
·Portadown, United Kingdom
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“Peace and democracy are not inevitable” – Barack Obama delivers powerful message at Queen’s University Belfast
Former U.S. President Barack Obama and President speaking at the ceremony at Queen’s University Belfast Tuesday 13 October 2026 Former US President Barack Obama has praised Northern Ireland’s transformation since the Good Friday Agreement, while warning that peace and democracy must never be taken for granted, as he received an honorary doctorate from Queen’s University Belfast. Speaking at a special ceremony attended by students, staff and invi…
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Total News Sources11
Leaning Left3Leaning Right0Center7Last UpdatedBias Distribution70% Center
Bias Distribution
- 70% of the sources are Center
70% Center
L 30%
C 70%
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