From Rome throughout the World: Launching the renewed Rome Declaration for Peace, Justice and Inclusive Societies

On the second day of the High Level Political Forum 2021 (HLPF), a second iteration of the Rome Declaration was officially launched. A broad civil society coalition of already 175+ signatories, spearheaded by TAP Network, CSPPS, Namati and GPPAC, restated the importance of the recommendations included in the declaration. 

"SDG localisation is fundamental to achieve the SDGs and the 2030 agenda, the Rome Declaration 2021 reflects this and other urgent recommendations well.”

- Mr Diego A. Cimino, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of Italy to the United Nations

What is the Rome Declaration?

In May 2019, civil society organisations from around the world met in Rome, Italy to participate in a Conference to truly advance peace, justice and inclusive societies - the SDG16 Conference. After an inclusive consultative process, the 2019 Rome Declaration was presented. The declaration highlights key civil society priority areas, recommendations, and an urgent call-to-action to achieve the real transformative potential of SDG16+. After its launch, the declaration received endorsement from over 230 civil society organisations (CSOs) and networks.

Since the adoption of the Rome Declaration over two years ago, the main issues that it brought to the fore have remained valid. The same structural injustices and inequalities that impacted the lives of vulnerable people before the COVID-19 crisis, now determine who suffers most from it.

The 2021 Rome Civil Society Declaration on SDG16+ serves as a firm and urgent reminder for the global community that peaceful, just and inclusive societies are at the core of not only sustainable development, but also sustainable recovery. In the midst of a protracted global crisis, the Rome Declaration 2.0, presented at the 2021 High Level Political Forum (HLPF) is a renewed call for accelerated action on SDG 16 and the 2030 Agenda. 

Why is the Rome Declaration more relevant now than ever? 

The moment to act is now. COVID-19 restrictions and lockdowns, alongside crackdowns on civil society and civic space, have led to declines in trust in institutions. Tensions have risen everywhere, including in regions facing conflict and fragility, leaving the already vulnerable in the most destitute of situations. Overall, the explosion of rights violations, conflict, and inequitable pandemic response has put the world further behind to achieving sustainable development. 

"In the context of COVID-19 and in line with recommendations of the Rome Declaration, we advocate for bolstering infrastructures for peace, so that they provide immediate & long-term people-centered recovery at national & community level."

- Patrick Bwire, Programme Coordinator for Peacebuilding at CECORE (Uganda)

This 2021 Addendum to the original Rome Declaration therefore serves as a firm and urgent reminder for the global community that peaceful, just and inclusive societies are at the core of not only sustainable development, but also sustainable recovery. Especially at a time like this. Progress on SDG-commitments is exactly what is needed whilst we find ourselves in the midst of this global pandemic. The roadmap to recovery is available, we just need to adhere to it. 

We encourage you to join our global movement by endorsing the 2021 Rome Declaration here, bringing us one step closer to achieving peaceful, just and inclusive societies!