Brian Rowan, award-winning journalist and author, honoured by The Open University at Belfast ceremony
Brian Rowan, one of Northern Ireland’s best known journalists and authors, has been honoured by The Open University for his ‘commitment to journalism and peacebuilding’.
He received the award at the Belfast degree ceremony on Friday.
Born in Belfast in 1958, Mr Rowan has dedicated much of his career to reporting the conflict and peace processes in Northern Ireland, making him one of the most authoritative voices on the region’s political landscape.
Over two decades at the BBC, he made significant contributions as a correspondent and security editor, focusing on the developing peace process. His exceptional work has been recognised with four Northern Ireland Press and Broadcast Awards, including twice being named Specialist Journalist of the Year.
Mr Rowan continues to contribute to various broadcast outlets, offering insightful commentary on the complex dynamics of Northern Irish politics,
As an author, he has provided invaluable perspectives on Northern Ireland’s contemporary history through his books. Titles such as ‘Behind the Lines’, ‘The Armed Peace’ and ‘How the Peace Was Won’ offer detailed accounts of the pivotal events of the 1990s, featuring voices from all sides of the conflict.
His more recent works, ‘Unfinished Peace: Thoughts On Northern Ireland’s Unanswered Past’ and ‘Political Purgatory’ delve into the ongoing challenges of reconciling the past with future aspirations.
In his most recent book, ‘Living With Ghosts: The Inside Story of a ‘Troubles’ Mind’, Mr Rowan explores the psychological toll of his work, reflecting on the ethical and moral dilemmas he has faced as a journalist deeply embedded in the fabric of Northern Ireland. His ability to maintain trust and critical distance while reporting on sensitive and evolving issues is a testament to his professional integrity and dedication.
Mr Rowan’s significant contributions extend beyond the BBC. In 2015, he chaired a landmark public debate on legacy and policing, featuring Sinn Fein Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness and Chief Constable Sir George Hamilton. During the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement in 2023, he developed ‘Pieces’, an exhibition and publication drawing from his personal archive, supported by the Centre for Cross Border Studies.
Commenting on the honour, he said, “I want to thank The Open University and its Ireland director John D’Arcy for this surprise honour. And I welcome the opportunity to say a few words of congratulations to all who are graduating in Belfast, and to wish them well in their next steps. This is their day of achievement. Their celebration.
"My role in reporting and commenting on our journey from conflict to peace has been both a challenge and a privilege. And, in this year, that marks the 30th anniversary of the 1994 ceasefires, I look forward, in the not too distant future, to sharing some of my research with The OU’s OpenLearn platform.
"We are in a better place now, and as we look out across our world, we see that peace is always a work in progress.”
John D’Arcy, director of The Open University in Ireland, said: “Brian Rowan’s dedication to uncovering and sharing the truth about Northern Ireland’s complex history is unparalleled. His commitment to journalism and peacebuilding aligns perfectly with our values at The Open University.
"The Open University shares Mr Rowan’s commitment to reconciliation and community cohesion. We are honoured to recognise his courage, compassion, and dedication to journalism and peacebuilding. His career serves as an inspiring example of the impact of perseverance and integrity in the pursuit of truth and understanding.”
Mr Rowan shared the spotlight at the ceremony with 172 other graduates who celebrated their academic achievements from The Open University.