[Green Monday Series] What does Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (SDG 16) mean at UEH?

Amid ongoing conflicts, violence, and instability in many parts of the world, strengthening the rule of law, protecting human rights, and promoting the inclusive participation of individuals have become more essential than ever. In pursuit of SDG 16 - Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, UEH is gradually building a transparent and accountable university environment grounded in effective governance, equality, and community engagement. In this week’s Green Monday Series, let’s explore Sustainable Development Goal 16 and UEH’s efforts to create a safe, fair, and inclusive learning and working environment that supports holistic development.

Peace and justice are regarded as foundations for sustainable societal development. However, in reality, the world is facing a concerning gap as violent conflicts continue to emerge and undermine progress toward SDG 16. In 2022, the number of civilian deaths related to conflicts increased by more than 50% compared to the previous year, marking the first alarming increase recorded since the adoption of the 2030 Agenda, largely driven by the war in Ukraine. In 2024, the number of people killed in armed conflicts increased by another 40% compared to 2023, marking the third consecutive year of increase. Of particular concern, the number of children and women killed during 2023-2024 was four times higher than in the previous two years, with as many as 8 out of 10 child fatalities and 7 out of 10 female fatalities occurring in Gaza. These figures not only reflect the scale of violence but also demonstrate that vulnerable groups continue to bear the heaviest consequences of conflicts.

In addition, violence, instability, and the absence of the rule of law have far-reaching consequences for socio-economic development. When people do not have equal access to justice, disputes become more difficult to resolve, the rights and interests of vulnerable groups are more likely to be overlooked, and the risk of abuse of power increases. Conversely, institutions that lack transparency, accountability, and effectiveness can undermine public trust and their ability to provide fair services to everyone. Therefore, achieving SDG 16 is not only about ending conflicts, but also requires strengthening the rule of law, protecting human rights, combating corruption, preventing crime and the illicit use of weapons, while ensuring equal and inclusive participation for every individual in society.

To advance SDG 16, UEH has placed emphasis on building a transparent and accountable governance system while promoting the participation of relevant stakeholders. At the University Council - UEH’s highest-level governance body - representative membership is established through a clear election process, with faculty and staff representatives accounting for at least 25% of Council members. Student representatives are also included, contributing to diverse and inclusive voices in strategic decision-making processes. The 2025-2030 term further demonstrates UEH’s commitment to fair and transparent governance. In addition, UEH has officially recognized the UEH Trade Union and UEH Student Association as independent and self-governing organizations representing the voices of employees and students. UEH also provides peer-support mechanisms, scholarships, and community services, alongside activities such as Xuan Tinh Nguyen, Spirit of Youth, Economics Youth, and Green Sunday, targeting disadvantaged and vulnerable groups within the community. Notably, approximately 407 out of 8,936 graduates were from programs related to peace and justice, demonstrating the role of education in promoting values of equity, responsibility, and sustainable development.

Furthermore, UEH has issued regulations on disciplinary violations and compensation responsibilities to advance SDG 16 through integrity, transparency, research, and policy dialogue. These regulations clearly address acts related to corruption, bribery, and conflicts of interest, while asset and income disclosure is implemented in accordance with Decree No. 130/2020/ND-CP. In addition, regulations governing scientific research contribute to safeguarding academic integrity and academic freedom. At the societal level, UEH has signed approximately 68 Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) and organized 58 conferences and workshops, including 22 activities at national and international levels, focusing on contemporary issues. Approximately 3,436 businesses have participated in semester-based activities and the Business Semester Program. As a bridge between knowledge and policy, UEH also maintains a network of 120 researchers and international partner institutions, regularly participating in national dialogues and contributing evidence and recommendations on issues such as economic development in Ho Chi Minh City; national competitiveness strategies; green growth; climate finance; sustainable urban planning; responsible AI governance; carbon markets; and the 2024 Land Law. Alongside these practical efforts, UEH not only strives to build a transparent, inclusive, and accountable university environment, but also strengthens the role of a university in connecting knowledge, communities, and policymaking, thereby contributing to the development of effective institutions and the advancement of sustainable development.

Infographic of UEH's contributions to SDG 16 - Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

Peace is not created only when conflicts come to an end; it is also nurtured through transparent institutions, access to justice, and the equal participation of every individual in society. From university governance, education, and research to policy dialogue and community engagement, UEH’s efforts demonstrate how SDG 16 can be realized through concrete actions in everyday life. Building a peaceful, just, and sustainable society must begin with each individual contributing their voice, participating, and taking action to foster trust, responsibility, and positive values within the community.

This article was prepared with reference to:

1. UEH Sustainability Report 2024: https://books.ueh.edu.vn/sustainability-report-ueh/ 

2. SDG 16 - Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions: https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/peace-justice/ 

Additional Information:

UEH Green Campus - Green Monday Series is a communication activity series under the UEH Green Campus Project, posted every Monday to start the week with positive energy and encourage a green lifestyle by providing knowledge, updating news, sharing inspiring stories about environmental protection and sustainable development.

News and photos: UEH Green Campus Project