"Irish political prisoners" refers to individuals imprisoned for their involvement in political activities related to the conflict in Northern Ireland. Many of these prisoners were associated with groups like the Irish Republican Army (IRA) or Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF), which sought to influence the political landscape through various means, including armed struggle. Their imprisonment often sparked debates about human rights and political legitimacy. The term gained prominence during the Troubles, a period of conflict from the late 1960s to 1998. Many political prisoners were held under special legislation, leading to protests and calls for their release. The Good Friday Agreement in 1998 included provisions for the release of certain prisoners, marking a significant step towards peace and reconciliation in the region.