Public Opinion on the Island: A Brief Overview of Phase One of the ARINS ‘north and South’ Project (2022–2024)

ABSTRACT: This article provides an overview of the first phase of the ARINS ‘North and South’ public opinion project on the island of Ireland, covering the years 2022–2024. The background and aims of the project are outlined, along with the methodologies employed. The principal findings are then presented. These include trends in voting intentions in hypothetical future referendums; the perceived acceptability of the outcome of such referendums; and attitudes towards preparation and planning for the possibility of Irish unification/reunification/unity. These findings indicate the current version of unification most likely to maximise acceptance of the outcome of the (potential) referendums. Subsequent sections summarise public opinion on core features of potential unification, notably public symbols and models of executive formation. Lastly, public perceptions of the potential economic consequences of unification are considered. We conclude by reflecting on future phases of the research programme. The second phase will start in 2026.