In the report entitled “A life of dignity for all: accelerating progress towards the Millennium Development Goals and advancing the United Nations development agenda beyond 2015”(A/68/202), the importance of building peace and effective governance based on human rights and the rule of law through sound institutions was underlined. Accountable and accessible institutions support the implementation and application of the rule of law and human rights and thereby strengthen the ability to maintain durable peace and build sustainable development for all. The openness and accountability of institutions, including parliaments , is also strengthened by ensuring the right of peoples to freedom of information . Moreover, elections are a vital part of democratic transitions, decolonization, and the implementation of peace agreements around the globe.
Constitutions are the foundational legal framework supporting a rule of law system. Constitution drafting or reform processes, embodying the principles of equality and non-discrimination , are often instrumental for peace agreements and peacebuilding efforts.
Strengthening the rule of law is critical to combating corruption . In this respect, the General Assembly adopted the United Nations Convention against Corruption on 31 October 2003. While accountable and transparent institutions are the vehicle for delivering services according to human rights and rule of law principles, corruption diverts resources needed for development and undermines the public trust in institutions.