On May 6, 2024, the SDG 16 High-Level Conference 2024 was held at the UN headquarters in New York, marking a pivotal moment in the global pursuit of Sustainable Development Goal 16 (SDG 16)—Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. The conference was a collaborative effort between the Permanent Mission of Italy to the United Nations, the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA), and the International Development Law Organization (IDLO).

The conference’s primary objectives were multifaceted. It aimed to provide an inclusive platform for political engagement in the implementation of SDG 16. By convening stakeholders from across the globe, the conference sought to review the progress made on SDG 16, while reviewing the prevailing trends, challenges, and opportunities. Considering the current global crises, it is crucial to consider the interlinkages between SDG 16 and other SDGs, as addressing issues such as corruption and weak governance systems is integral to achieving sustainable development.

President Sergio Mattarella, Italian president opened the 5th #SDG16Conference while noting that peace, inclusion and justice, key principles of the Italian constitution, are essential cornerstones for the sustainable development of every country and every society. Jan Beagle, the Director General of the International Development Law Organization (IDLO), highlighted the critical nature of SDG16 and its enabling effect on other SDGs. She emphasized the importance of CSOs in accountability of SDG mechanisms and the need for a robust and well-funded CSO to ensure that SDG targets are met.

Additionally, Li Junhua, Under Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs UNDESA stressed that effective institutions that are innovative, responsive and resilient to shocks must be built as they steer societal change through transparent, accountable leadership. The 2024 Rome Civil society declaration was presented and can be downloaded: https://t.co/YgDrtl54rx.

With its comprehensive agenda and diverse participation, the SDG 16 High-Level Conference 2024 stands as a beacon of hope and collaboration in the global pursuit of peace, justice, and strong institutions, driving momentum towards a more sustainable and equitable future for all. We commend IDLO’s initiative in providing an inclusive platform for political engagement on SDG 16 implementation.

The DG of IDLO remarks can be accessed: https://www.idlo.int/sites/default/files/documents/dg_statement_2024sdg_16_conference_opening.pdf

The African Center supports the view that all stakeholders, including civil society, are actively involved in decision-making processes to ensure the effectiveness and inclusivity of SDG initiatives. 

The remarks of the DG of IDLO can be accessed: https://www.idlo.int/sites/default/files/documents/dg_statement_2024sdg_16_conference_opening.pdf

The African Center for Governance, Asset Recovery, and Sustainable Development (“the African Center”) is an independent, civil society organization headquartered in Abuja, Nigeria. The African Center collaborates with national governments, international and regional organizations, and non-governmental organizations to promote good governance, sustainable development, and the rule of law. Read more: https://lnkd.in/dhAxzGEr

More information on our work can be found on our website: https://lnkd.in/dRGufXjF

To become a member of the Network of Asset Recovery and Management Professionals, please click https://lnkd.in/dvydT63Z