SDG 16 seeks to promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels. Violence and armed conflict are the most significant and destructive challenge to the development, growth, and wellbeing of societies. The global sustainable development agenda for 2030 promotes transparent and effective local governance and judicial systems, reducing crime and sexual and gender based violence, tackling homicide and trafficking cases and also end Children’s rights violations. It seeks to address the challenges of violence at all levels – individual, relationship, community and societal.
The spirit of democracy, justice, liberty and equality has been deeply embedded in the Indian constitution. Acts like The Right to Information Act, Lok Pal and Lok Ayukta Act, Whistle Blowers Protection Act etc., further reinforced it. More than 90% citizens have been covered under the unique identity system Aadhar. The political participation of vulnerable groups has been ensured in the constitutional framework of the country.
There are 12 targets in Goal 16 to ensure peaceful and just societies. A total of 21 indicators have been identified at national level to measure and monitor the progress of these targets and baseline data is available for all indicators.
