SDG16 & SDG17 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions & Partnerships for the Goals // Sustainable Policies
Hello - Happy festive season!
This month, we’re reflecting on what it takes to build a more just, peaceful, and connected world. Strong institutions, fairness, and meaningful collaboration across borders are at the heart of this change. Sustainable Development Goals 16 and 17 remind us that creating inclusive societies and working together globally aren’t just ideals, they’re essential steps forward.
Together, we can work to make a lasting change.
"Peace is not the absence of conflict, but the ability to cope with it".
– Mahatma Gandhi
Newsletter Contents:
> Story Highlight: The Bridge of Harmony
> December Focus: SDG16 & SDG17 & Sustainable Policies
In a remote town in Rwanda, two divided communities lived in constant conflict, separated by a crumbled bridge. A young architect, Amara, proposed rebuilding the bridge—not just with stone but also with trust.
She brought leaders from both sides together to design it, turning suspicion into collaboration. Through shared efforts, the bridge was rebuilt, symbolising unity and hope.
Markets thrived, friendships grew, and the town established fair institutions to sustain this new peace. The bridge became a beacon of justice and partnership, proving that progress comes when communities build together, creating a future where all can thrive.
December’s Focus:
SDG16 & SDG17 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
& Partnerships for the Goals // Sustainable Policies
This month’s focus is on Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions alongside Partnerships for the Goals, driven by a commitment to sustainable policies. Strong institutions are a key foundation for a peaceful future as they foster justice, accountability, and trust through well-designed policies. To achieve this vision, positive partnerships play a vital role by uniting diverse stakeholders to drive meaningful change and advance sustainability.
Beyond sustainability, policies must secure universal rights, ensuring that communities not only survive but thrive. Therefore, changing the system and reimagining governance are essential to building lasting peace and justice. By aligning these efforts and embedding sustainable practices we can create a peaceful and just society.
THRIVE Recognition 🎉
“Giving back to society and the community should be the foremost mission of individuals.” – Dr. Morris Fedeli
Dr. Morris Fedeli has been honoured as a Fellow within the ICT movement, celebrating 35 years of transformative contributions to science, technology, and industry across three continents. This recognition reflects his dedication to tackling global challenges like climate change, social injustice, and poverty.
This pivotal achievement includes the international acknowledgement of the THRIVE Framework, marking a decade of ground breaking work towards fostering a sustainable and thrivable future.
SPOTLIGHT
THRIVE Project is partnering with Brisbane City Council to host Thrivability Matters Olympiad - creating engaging competitions on sustainability and thrivability. School students from years 6-12 will learn via resources provided by THRIVE Project and from the guidance of their teachers.
The achievements of the Olympic athletes inspire students as they create science or art projects communicating their messages of thrivability. The top 3 projects will be displayed at a location in Brisbane in 2032 and the top student will win a ticket to either a track or field event at the 2032 Brisbane Olympics!
“The trillion-dollar industry of war and armed conflict is a complex wicked problem that has direct consequences not only on the sanctity and basic rights of human life but also on the natural environment. We must utilise our resources to establish thrivable and life-sustaining initiatives and institutions: a world beyond war."
- Jec Dan Borlado, Philippines, Volunteer Team Assistant at THRIVE Project. Jec is a peace-builder-musician, Rotarian, and Pickleball coach. With a background in Medical Technology and Ecumenical Theology.
