SDG 16, or Sustainable Development Goal 16, is one of the 17 global goals established by the United Nations to be achieved by 2030. Titled “Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions,” SDG 16 focuses on promoting peaceful, just, and inclusive societies. This goal encompasses several key targets, including reducing violence, ending abuse, promoting the rule of law, and ensuring access to justice for all. It also emphasizes the importance of accountable and transparent institutions and the protection of fundamental freedoms.
SDG 16 recognizes that peace, justice, and effective governance are essential for achieving sustainable development. It seeks to prevent and resolve conflicts, reduce corruption and crime, and uphold human rights. By promoting strong institutions and the rule of law, SDG 16 contributes to creating an environment where individuals can live in safety, dignity, and with the assurance that their rights will be protected. Achieving SDG 16 is crucial for building a more stable and equitable world.
Below is the information regarding international legislation Pakistan is a signatory to and where SDG 16 focused constitutional provisions can be found in the 1973 Constitution.
International Legislation
• Right to life, liberty and security of the person [UDHR art. 3; ICCPR arts. 6(1), 9(1)] including freedom from torture [UDHR art. 5; ICCPR art. 7; CRC art. 37(a)] Protection of children from all forms of violence, abuse or exploitation [CRC arts. 19, 37(a)), including trafficking (CRC arts. 34-36; CRC–OP1)]
• Right to access to justice and due process [UDHR arts. 8, 10; ICCPR arts. 2(3), 14-15; CEDAW art. 2(c)]
• Right to legal personality [UDHR art. 6; ICCPR art. 16]
• Right to participate in public affairs [UDHR art. 21; ICCPR art. 25]
• Right to access to information [UDHR art. 19; ICCPR art. 19(1)]
Constitution of Pakistan
• Article 10
• Article 10A
• Article 14
• Article 19A
• Article 37 (d)
• Article 34
• Article 184
• Article 199
• Article 256
