The Urgent Work of Our Moment: The Rule of Law & Democracy – Ford Foundation

Strengthening Democracy and Upholding the Rule of Law: A Focus on Sustainable Development Goals

Introduction

The Ford Foundation hosted a significant discussion featuring President Heather Gerken, J. Michael Luttig, former judge for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, and Jeh Johnson, former U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security. The conversation centered on the critical themes of strengthening democracy, protecting elections, and upholding the rule of law.

Emphasis on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

This dialogue aligns closely with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly:

1. SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions – Promoting peaceful and inclusive societies, providing access to justice for all, and building effective, accountable institutions.
2. SDG 5: Gender Equality – Ensuring inclusive participation in democratic processes.
3. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – Safeguarding equal rights and opportunities within democratic frameworks.

Key Discussion Points

• Strengthening Democracy: Emphasizing the need for resilient democratic institutions that can withstand contemporary challenges.
• Protecting Elections: Highlighting the importance of transparent and secure electoral processes to maintain public trust and legitimacy.
• Upholding the Rule of Law: Ensuring that laws are applied fairly and consistently to protect human rights and maintain social order.

Conclusion

The conversation underscores the integral role of democratic governance and the rule of law in achieving sustainable development. By reinforcing these pillars, societies can progress towards the comprehensive realization of the SDGs, fostering inclusive, just, and peaceful communities worldwide.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed

1. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
   • The article focuses on strengthening democracy, protecting elections, and upholding the rule of law, all of which are central themes of SDG 16.

2. Specific Targets Under the Identified SDGs

1. SDG 16 Targets
   • Target 16.6: Develop effective, accountable and transparent institutions at all levels.
   • Target 16.7: Ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory and representative decision-making at all levels.
   • Target 16.10: Ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms, in accordance with national legislation and international agreements.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied in the Article

1. Indicators Related to SDG 16 Targets
   • Indicator 16.6.1: Primary government expenditures as a proportion of original approved budget, by sector (or by budget codes or similar).
   • Indicator 16.7.2: Proportion of population who believe decision-making is inclusive and responsive.
   • Indicator 16.10.1: Number of verified cases of killing, kidnapping, enforced disappearance, arbitrary detention and torture of journalists, associated media personnel, trade unionists and human rights advocates in the previous 12 months.
   • While not explicitly mentioned, the discussion on protecting elections implies indicators related to electoral integrity and voter participation rates.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: fordfoundation.org