Definitions of Peace, Security, and Strong Institutions under SDG 16

Under Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16, peace is defined not just as the absence of conflict, but as an environment free from violence, discrimination, and fear, encompassing both negative and positive peace. Security involves protection from threats and violence, ensuring basic human rights and freedoms. Strong institutions are characterized by accountability, transparency, and inclusivity, supporting the rule of law and human rights. Countries facing the most severe challenges regarding peace and security, such as Yemen, Sudan, and Afghanistan, experience armed conflict, political instability, and governance failures. The consequences for populations are dire, resulting in widespread violence, mass displacement, lack of access to justice, and human rights violations, which severely hinder development and create humanitarian crises. In response, affected communities often rely on social support networks, humanitarian aid, and coping mechanisms, though these strategies frequently fall short of addressing their profound challenges. Additional issues, including chronic poverty, corruption, and inadequate governance, further complicate recovery efforts in these fragile states. Overall, the interplay of conflict, weak institutions, and humanitarian crises creates a cycle that perpetuates hardship and instability for millions.