Why has the Alliance Party struggled to increase its vote significantly?

The polarization of society in Northern Ireland has significantly impacted the Alliance Party's ability to increase its vote. The political landscape is heavily dominated by two main communities, nationalist and unionist, which often leads voters to align strictly along these lines. This division makes it challenging for a centrist party like the Alliance, which is positioned as a liberal and progressive alternative, to break through and attract voters from the more entrenched parties.

In a context where political identity is deeply tied to community affiliations, the Alliance Party often struggles to appeal to voters who are primarily influenced by sectarian loyalties. This polarization limits the party's potential voter base, as many individuals in Northern Ireland may prioritize traditional party lines over alternative, more moderate options. As a result, the Alliance Party finds it difficult to significantly increase its overall electoral support, as many voters remain entrenched within the existing political dichotomy.