PeaceForward at the SDG 16 Conference 2025

On May 12, 2025, Samra Sheikh, Co-Founder and President of PeaceForward, had the honour of attending the SDG 16 Conference 2025 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, on behalf of PeaceForward. Organized by the Permanent Mission of Italy to the United Nations, UNDESA, and the International Development Law Organization (IDLO), the conference convened governments, international organizations, civil society, academia, youth, and women leaders to advance global action on Sustainable Development Goal 16—promoting peace, justice, and strong institutions.

The conference acknowledged the alarming seven-year global decline in peace and the rule of law, reinforcing the urgency of our collective efforts.

Held in the lead-up to major multilateral events such as the High-Level Political Forum and the World Summit for Social Development, the conference underscored the vital role of inclusive governance, rule of law, and human rights in realizing the 2030 Agenda. Key discussions centred around how investing in SDG 16 delivers tangible development outcomes and strengthens the social contract between institutions and citizens.

Representing PeaceForward, Samra Sheikh participated in conversations emphasizing the importance of community-based peacebuilding, inclusive policymaking, and equitable access to justice—principles that form the foundation of PeaceForward’s work in post-conflict and emergency-affected regions.

Particularly resonant was the focus on all-of-society engagement, a theme central to PeaceForward’s mission of empowering local voices, especially those of women and youth, to drive long-term peace and development.

PeaceForward is committed to building on the insights gained at the SDG 16 Conference by promoting peace education, institutional accountability, and grassroots leadership in pursuing just, inclusive, and peaceful societies.

We look forward to contributing to upcoming global dialogues and initiatives that shape a more equitable and sustainable future for all.