HLPF: SDG 16 – Peace, justice and strong institutions

Statement by Police Counsellor Jon Christian Møller in the discussion on SDG 16 – Peace, justice and strong institutions, 12 July 2019.

| High-Level Political Forum

Mr. Chair,

Good governance and respect for Human Rights are vital for lasting peace, stability and development. Inclusion of women, children and youth in decision-making is crucial to leaving no one behind. We need to ensure space for greater engagement by women and young people in peace and reconciliation. Norway sees the implementation of resolution 2250 on youth, peace and security as an important investment in our common future.

The oppression and killings of Human Rights defenders is a threat to peace and security. We need strong advocates for Human Rights and the Sustainable Development Goals. Without them, the world’s marginalized groups, including indigenous peoples, will not benefit from the 2030 Agenda.

After 20 years in the police service, I have witnessed how crime is changing. Use of cyber technology to facilitate crimes is increasing. Together with abuse of artificial intelligence, this is resulting in serious and far-reaching consequences for global security. Rule of law institutions are facing new challenges with transnational organized crime and terrorism. As a result, we urgently need to update the skills of law enforcement officials worldwide. Innovative, multilateral partnerships working with private technology companies, academia, INTERPOL and civil society organizations, will be key going forward.

Illicit financial flows and corruption are increasing. It challenges the very fabric of our international society. Norway’s engagement with partners to curb this trend, spans more than a decade. We support the attention this matter is gaining.

I thank you.