One of the heartening aspects of international relations in recent years was the adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a global framework for action in 2015. The aim is to attain 17 goals in the fifteen year period by 2030. There has been a great "buy-in" in that states have committed to these goals without exception.
While that commitment is welcome, the realities are more challenging in relation to effective implementation. The SDGs underline five "P's" -- peace, people, planet , prosperity and partnership. What should be highlighted also is the sixth "P" which concerns "power" and the call for transparency, accountability and accessibility of various power groups in their interaction with other stakeholders. This is particularly linked with Goal 16 of the SDGs which aims to promote "peaceful and inclusive societies", provide "access to justice for all" and build "inclusive institutions at all levels".
This was one of the more sensitive goals in the discussions leading to the SDGs, precisely because it touched upon anti-violence, anti-corruption, anti-discrimination, participatory decision-making, and rights and freedoms. In a manner, goal 16 is a euphemism for our aspiration to realise not only peace but also human rights, good governance and democracy.
