The role of non-official data to track progress and challenges in achieving just, inclusive and peaceful societies (SDG 16)

As the world enters the final stretch towards the 2030 Agenda, progress on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16 on Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions remains off track, while major gaps in official data continue to limit our understanding of where progress is being made and where action is most urgently needed. Join the SDG 16 Data Initiative,  International IDEA, the Centre for Law and Democracy, TAP Network, Small Arms Survey and the World Justice Project partners for an online side event during the United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) to explore the latest evidence from non-official data on global trends, persistent challenges and emerging priorities for SDG 16. Drawing on the SDG 16 Data Initiative's 2025 Annual Report and forthcoming 2026 report, the discussion will examine how complementary data sources can strengthen accountability, inform policy, highlight the links between SDG 16 and the wider 2030 Agenda, including gender equality, and help shape priorities for the post-2030 sustainable development framework.

Moderator: Massimo Tommasoli, Senior Advisor, International IDEA

Agenda

09:00                     Introduction and Moderation of Event

Massimo Tommasoli, Senior Advisor, International IDEA

09:05                     Panel Discussion 

Annika Silva-Leander, Head of Strategic Initiatives and Permanent Observer to the UN, International IDEA

Toby Mendel, Founder and Executive Director, Centre for Law and Democracy

Elena Marmo, Deputy Director, TAP Network

Grace Hulseman, Senior Research Associate, World Justice Project

Callum Watson, Gender Coordinator and Programme Manager, Small Arms Survey 

9:50                        Q&A 

10:00                     Closing

About the SDG 16 Data Initiative

The SDG 16 Data Initiative is a consortium of 18 organizations that generates high-quality non-official data to strengthen monitoring of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16 on peace, justice and strong institutions. By complementing official indicators, the Initiative provides a more comprehensive picture of global progress, identifies critical data gaps, and supports more informed policymaking and accountability on the commitments made by UN Member States.