Excellencies,
Distinguished Delegates,
Dear UN colleagues,
Welcome to the SDG 16 Conference 2026.
I extend my sincere gratitude to the Permanent Mission of Italy and the International Development Law Organization for once again partnering with the UN DESA to convene this important global event.
This Conference comes at a critical moment. As the world continues to navigate multiple, intersecting crises, progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals is seriously off track. This reality highlights the urgent need for not only renewed commitment, but decisive, coordinated action. That imperative is reflected in this year¡¯s Conference theme: ¡°Driving transformation and coordinated action for sustainable development.¡±
Today¡¯s discussions will examine how investments in peace, justice and effective institutions can catalyse progress across the entire 2030 Agenda. They will also provide an opportunity to identify practical solutions and reinforce SDG 16 as a critical enabler of progress across all Goals.
At the core of this effort, rebuilding trust between citizens and institutions is fundamental. Institutions must be transparent, accountable and responsive, delivering results for all. Strengthening institutional capacity, expanding participation, and protecting rights are essential to building inclusive societies.
Digital transformation brings both opportunities and risks ¡ªtechnology can improve inclusion and services, but only with strong safeguards to protect rights and limit inequality.
Achieving this vision cannot be the work of governments alone. Progress on SDG 16 requires collaboration across society, bringing together governments, civil society, local authorities, youth, women leaders, academia, and the private sector.
Looking ahead, the 2027 SDG Summit will offer a crucial opportunity to renew our collective commitment to building peaceful, just and inclusive societies and to strengthen the institutions needed to achieve them.
I am confident that today¡¯s deliberations will yield practical recommendations and actionable ideas that will contribute to the upcoming High-level Political Forum and help lay the groundwork for the Summit.
Thank you.