Did you know that more than 70 million people were forced to leave their home because of war or conflict in 2018? Many families live in constant fear of losing their loved ones because no one is helping to enforce the laws that protect them.

To live safely and peacefully is one of your human rights. Everyone should be able to enjoy this way of living. 

Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions aims to promote peaceful and inclusive societies while building effective institutions at all levels.

Browse through our new SDG Book Club Reading List which will help teach kids how they can contribute to peace: 

  • The book I'm a Global Citizen: A Peaceful World explores the issues of peace and conflict, including why peace is important and how we can keep the peace.

  • With very little text, the book Azadah tells a story of Azadah, a little Afghan girl who becomes friends with the German photographer Anja. Through the friendship with Anja, Azadah discovers her immense thirst for knowledge, freedom, culture and travel. The story helps children understand the importance of gender equality and the human right to freedom. 

  • La otra orilla tells the story of Graciela, a girl who lives on the banks of a river. She is forbidden to cross because people living on the other side are "strange". One day, she decides to cross the river and discovers that there are more similarities between them than differences. This book inspires kids to get to know and respect each other. And to learn to live together without prejudice.

We hope you will enjoy the reading list for Goal 16! Share it with your friends, organize an online meeting to discuss a book, and share ideas on how you can help to make the world a more peaceful and just place.

Don't forget to share your comments via #SDGBookClub and tag us @unpublications.

Here are some examples of taking action as a family:

  • Talk with your family and friends gently when you have conflicts with each other

  • Participate in local community events such as sports events and barbeques to get to know one another in safe environments

  • Respect classmates if they have different opinions and try to appreciate the value of their thoughts

  • Raise your voice against any type of bullying at your school

  • Report online bullies. If you notice harassment on a message board or in a chat room, flag that person

  • Learn more about laws and rules and inspire others to become active members in their community

The SDG Book Club Reading List for Goal 16 is in the 6 official UN languages:

Arabic | Chinese | English | French | Russian | Spanish