Transforming Governance for a more Peaceful, Just and Inclusive Future: SDG 16 as the roadmap to respond to

Co-organized by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA), the International Development Law Organization (IDLO), and the Government of Italy, the SDG 16 Conference provided a timely global platform to address the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the transformative contribution SDG 16 can make in promoting inclusive and sustainable recovery and in accelerating progress. [...] • Strengthening transparency and accountability and addressing corruption risks through an integrated and whole-of-society approach will be paramount to ensuring the effectiveness of response and recovery plans to address the socio-economic impacts of COVID-19 and to avoid further marginalization of the most vulnerable segments of society. [...] • The Secretary-General of the United Nations has highlighted that “putting people at the center is key to reviving the bonds that hold our societies together, and to re-establishing trust between people and communities, and governments.” • Multi-stakeholder partnerships at local, national and international levels have a key role to play in supporting good governance and long-term transformation. [...] 17 1.2 - Lessons from the response of public institutions to the pandemic The pandemic has abruptly disrupted the regular functioning of public institutions such as parliaments and justice systems, and affected key government functions and processes, undermining the effectiveness of government action at the national and sub-national levels. [...] • More people-centered data, evidence and the utilization of technology are needed to design more responsive and cost-effective programs and public service delivery to meet people’s needs and to strengthen governance and accountability.