DILI, 13 May 2025 (TATOLI) – Helder da Costa, General Secretary of the g7+ Secretariat, on Wednesday, 12 May 2025, at the SDG16 Conference at the UN Headquarters, shared lessons from conflict-affected countries on building lasting peace and justice.
He emphasized the urgent need for national ownership, inclusive dialogue, and sustained international support to achieve the SDG 16 goals of peace, justice, and strong institutions.
The event was co-convened by the Permanent Mission of Italy to the United Nations, the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) and the International Development Law Organization (IDLO).
Costa said that countries that have faced conflict must be trusted to lead their own peace and reconciliation efforts: “Nationally driven processes allow peacebuilding to be more relevant and sustainable. Support, not substitution, is the way forward.”
“True peace goes beyond just the absence of war—it requires the restoration of social cohesion and trust in state institutions,” he said.
Costa emphasized the importance of inclusive, locally-led dialogue platforms like truth commissions, community peace dialogues, and traditional dispute resolution mechanisms.
“The g7+ group is facing a multiple and interconnected challenges like climate shocks, rising food insecurity, and economic instability. In this fragile environment, global cooperation is vital,” he said.
Costa also highlighted the Dili Resolution, outcome of the g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in April, a collective commitment by the g7+ countries, which calls for a focus on dialogue, reconciliation, and country-led solutions. “This includes the appointment of President José Ramos Horta of Timor-Leste as Special Envoy for mediation.”
He called on development partners, donors, and multilateral institutions to join in the effort to build peace, with respect for national ownership and commitment to long-term, flexible support.
TATOLI
