Goal 16: Peace, justice and strong institutions
Goal 16 is divided into various sub-goals. In addition to significantly reducing violence (16.1) and ensuring equal access to justice for all (16.3), key demands include ending the abuse and exploitation of children (16.2), combating illicit financial and arms flows and organised crime (16.4). Also, reducing corruption (16.5), legal identity for all people through birth registration (16.9) and public access to information (16.10). Effective and accountable institutions should be built at all levels (16.6) and decision-making should be inclusive, participatory and representative (16.7). The participation of developing countries in global governance institutions should also be strengthened (16.8).
To achieve these sub-goals, state institutions must have necessary capacities (16.a) and non-discriminatory legislation, policies and administrative procedures must be enforced (16.b). In line with the 2030 Agenda's commitment to realising human rights for all, SDG 16 and its sub-targets build on universal human rights standards and principles and use them as a benchmark for implementation.