Peace, justice and strong institutions: Envisioning alternative pathways (SDG 16)

This chapter explores the building of peaceful, inclusive and just societies and the responsibilities of individuals, communities, institutions and governments in the transformation required that will lead to effective and sustainable change. The chapter analyses some economic, political, cultural and social structures to aid the understanding of how resources, power, values and relationships impact on human rights and the creation of just societies. Exploring more fully the concepts of justice and peace, it highlights individual and collective responsibilities, entailed in a vision for society based on respect, solidarity, dialogue, openness and inclusive environmental protection, as outlined in SDG 16 at a local, national and global level. Through case studies, literature, activities and practical examples, it explores the inherent and inalienable dignity of the human person, which is developed through meaningful participation in relationships and community and protected through recognition of human rights.