FoAA and the implementation of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals 

In this report the Special Rapporteur examined the connection between the exercise of the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and association (FoAA) and the realization of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). More specifically the report defined five crucial areas where upholding FoAA rights is essential for achieving the SDGs.

These areas include:

1. Creating an enabling environment for civil society

Past international development efforts have proven that a significant correlation exists between the achievement of poverty eradication and enabling a safe and inclusive environment for the involvement of the people concerned. When people can freely exercise the rights covered by the Special Rapporteur’s mandate, all stakeholders involved, both at a national and international level can contribute meaningfully to the achievement of the SDGs, by sharing their opinions and helping develop more sustainable and inclusive policies.

2. Ensuring participation and inclusiveness

The unobstructed and universal exercise of the rights to freedom to peaceful assembly and association is crucial to ensure that no one is left behind in the sustainable implementation of the SDGs.

3. Ensuring transparency and accountability

FoAA rights develop transparency by addressing inequality, corruption, governance failures and injustices, all elements that hinder the realization of the SDGs.

4. Creating partnerships with civil society

A revitalized global partnership for Sustainable Development based on a spirit of strengthened global solidarity can only be constructed when there is a solid respect for FoAA rights. Such cross -border partnerships are key when addressing interlinked and trans-border challenges that stand in the way of achieving the SDGs.

5. Supporting labour rights

FoAA rights enable the involvement and emancipation of those concerned. In this sense they also provide a solid base for social dialogue, labor market controls and the implementation of fair work and other rights.

The report finalizes with a series of concrete recommendations aimed at States for ensuring the integrity and harmonious implementation of the SDGs.

This report was presented to the General Assembly in October 2018, during its 73rd session.

 

Read the full report (A/73/279) in all UN languages here. 

Read practical recommendations to ensure CSO participation in the SDGs here. [LINK TO BE ADDED}