Proposed SDG 16 calls for the “promotion of peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provision of access to justice for all and building effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels.” The ten targets proposed under SDG 16 provide a common framework for governance that focuses on promoting rule of law, enhancing access to justice, reducing violence promoting anti-corruption, transparency and the accountability of institutions, addressing exclusion, and enhancing public participation and engagement. In short, the framework envisaged under Goal 16 is fundamental for protecting human rights and addressing multiple and complex development challenges, including those caused by climate change.  

This issue brief highlights the governance challenges in the Asia-Pacific and possible avenues of support where UNDP can strengthen governance for sustainable development, including supporting the implementation of SDG Goal 16: Governance for Peaceful and Inclusive Societies and associated targets in other SDGs.