SDG 16
Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

Strong institutions and just laws are essential for protecting people’s rights—and must be firmly established to ensure everyone can live free of discrimination, violence and exploitation. Unfortunately, institutions can also be perpetrators of violence and repression, and reinforce inequalities.

In 2017, 68.5 million people were displaced by violence and conflict – a record number. While tensions around settling migrants in Western countries escalates, 84 percent of refugees settle in developing countries.

Around the world, only 2 countries have 50 percent or more women in parliament – Rwanda and Bolivia – though in 46 countries women hold 30 percent or more of seats in at least one national government chamber. In Canada, women make up 50 percent of the population but only 27 percent of Members of Parliament.

Canada is also dealing with the legacy of colonial settlement and institutions, including residential schools, and taking important steps toward truth and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. However, 52 percent of children under age 14 in the foster care system are First Nations, Metis or Inuit despite comprising only 8 percent of the overall population.

Peace and justice can only be achieved when institutions serve in the interest of all people, so let’s invest in democratic, transparent and inclusive processes to ensure everyone can live in peaceful and inclusive societies.