SDG 16—The Role of the OSCE

Abstract

The Organization for Security Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) plays an important role in helping its 57 participating States implement almost all of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals with its toolbox, expertise, and knowledge on the ground. There is growing momentum to better recognize and consider how its activities fit into the global framework. The increasing number of SDG references in political statements suggests that the 2030 Agenda carries an increasing weight within the OSCE, and with the universal application of the 2030 Agenda, this trend will likely continue in the coming years. While in today’s challenging multilateral climate, this does not come without certain reservations, in the case of SDG 16, the OSCE’s supporting role is particularly pronounced as it can be seen as directly relevant to the core activities of the organization, namely, conflict prevention and building lasting peace and security. This article outlines the role of the OSCE in supporting the implementation of SDG 16, considering the particular challenges relating to this goal. It will also discuss the lessons learned concerning the OSCE’s role as a regional arrangement of the United Nations (UN) in the implementation of the SDGs.