Distinguished Delegates and Colleagues,

On behalf of the co organizers UNDP, UNODC and OHCHR, it is my great pleasure to welcome you to the launch of the 2025 Global Progress Report on SDG 16. We are delighted to host this event and to see such a diverse community of Member States and partners gathered with a shared purpose: advancing peace, justice and strong institutions.

This report is the result of collaboration among UNDP, UNODC and OHCHR, with contributions from nine other institutions. It was made possible by Member States who provided and validated the data, allowing us to present the most comprehensive picture yet of where the world stands on Goal 16.

Let me begin with one encouraging sign. Data availability is improving. Between 2023 and 2025, the share of countries with SDG 16 data rose from 37 percent to 56 percent. That is real progress, but it is still not enough. Without reliable and timely data, governments cannot design policies that meet people’s needs or ensure that no one is left behind.

At the same time, the findings are sobering. There have been gains such as declines in interpersonal violence, wider birth registration, stronger access to information laws and more national human rights institutions. Yet progress remains fragile, uneven and far too slow. We are not on track to achieve the SDGs, and we are not on track to achieve SDG 16.

This is happening amid intensifying crises. Civilian deaths are rising, and displacement has reached record levels. Violence, corruption, injustice and exclusion persist, and justice gaps remain stark, from prolonged pre-trial detention to barriers that deter victims from seeking remedies.

This is a moment for urgent action: to reform justice systems, expand civic space, make institutions transparent, accountable and responsive and invest in peacebuilding.  

Some countries have already started championing these efforts, with UNDP as a proud partner.  

For instance, in 2024, UNDP supported the participation of 140 million women in elections. We also supported more than 160 million people gain access to basic services and work with governments and civil society in more than 100 countries to make sure people can access justice and enjoy their fundamental rights.  

We also help countries strengthen statistical systems and expand data availability. By linking data, policy and practice, governments can turn evidence into action and build the trust and resilience that drive progress across all SDGs.

Member States have consistently affirmed the importance of SDG 16. Since 2016, it has been among the most frequently prioritized goals in Voluntary National Reviews, reflecting recognition that peace, justice and strong institutions underpin the entire 2030 Agenda.

Distinguished delegates, colleagues,  

The 2025 Seville Conference on Financing for Development provided a timely opportunity to elevate SDG 16. El Compromiso de Sevilla underscores that sustainable finance requires inclusive institutions, fair public spending and renewed trust in governance.

Looking ahead to the next climate conference, SDG 16 is equally critical. Countries cannot deliver on climate promises without trusted institutions, fair management of climate finance and people engaged in shaping solutions.

No single actor can do this alone. Delivering on SDG 16 requires partnerships across governments, civil society, the private sector and international organizations, and a renewed spirit of multilateralism with a strong unified United Nations working with countries to realize their ambitions.

Let us be clear. The world will not be judged by the number of resolutions signed, promises made or reports launched. We will be judged by whether people feel safer on their streets, whether they can access justice without fear or discrimination and whether their voices are heard in the decisions that shape their lives. That is the true measure of SDG 16, and we must do better.

Thank you.