Global Goals and ADR Methods
Sustainability, sustainable development, sustainable living… At this point today, we hear, write, and read these concepts almost every day. However, there are still question marks about how much the concept of sustainability has been internalized. Let’s first look at the general and different topic definitions of this concept.
What is Sustainability?
Brundtland Definition (1987):
“Sustainability is meeting the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”
This definition was presented in the “Our Common Future” report by the United Nations World Commission on Environment and Development.
Triple Bottom Line:
Sustainability refers to balancing economic, social, and environmental dimensions.
This concept, developed by John Elkington, suggests that companies should consider not only their economic gains but also their social and environmental impacts.
Ecological Sustainability: The use of natural resources without depletion and without damaging ecosystems. This definition emphasizes minimizing the environmental impact of human activities.
Social Sustainability: The capacity to meet the needs of all members of society and sustain social harmony. It includes elements such as equality, justice, human rights, and improving the quality of life.
Economic Sustainability: The long-term sustainability of economic growth, efficient use of resources, and maintenance of financial balance. This definition emphasizes the continuity of economic development and the equitable distribution of economic opportunities.
Kültürel Sürdürülebilirlik: The preservation of cultural diversity and heritage, and the survival of cultural identities and traditions. It expresses the capacity of societies to pass on their cultural values and traditions to future generations.
Corporate Sustainability: The processes of creating long-term value by considering economic, environmental, and social responsibilities of companies and organizations. It emphasizes that business strategies should be based on sustainability principles.
All these definitions lead us to almost the same point. As long as we continue to use today’s resources without thinking about tomorrow, it will not be possible to talk about a healthy future.
United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Humanity needed a common goal to align different definitions, perceptions, cultures, and ways of life, and this need resulted in the Sustainable Development Goals determined by the United Nations. Recently, it was gathered under the title of ‘Sustainable Development Goals’ or ‘Global Goals,’ considering that it is more inclusive. Global goals cover a wide range from reducing poverty to combating climate change. The common point of the 17 global goals is the equal distribution of resources, absolute cooperation, and the necessity of justice. This is where the Sustainable Development Goals and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methods intersect: the correct use of resources, absolute cooperation, and the need for justice
Intersection Points of Global Goals and ADR Methods:
Peace and Justice (SDG 16)
The 16th goal of the global goals aims to build peaceful and inclusive societies, provide justice for all, and create effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels. ADR methods are directly related to the goal of creating a peaceful and just society. These methods contribute to social peace by resolving disputes between parties through peaceful means. At the same time, it helps the justice system work more efficiently by reducing the workload of courts. It plays a critical role in ensuring economic stability and business security by resolving commercial disputes quickly and definitively.
Economic Growth and Employment (SDG 8)
The 8th goal of the Global Goals aims to promote sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all. The rapid and effective resolution of disputes in the business world supports economic stability and growth. It helps establish healthier communication and relationships between employers and employees. This increases peace and productivity in the workplace and ensures job security. The quick and peaceful resolution of disputes at work increases the motivation and productivity of employees. ADR methods create a climate of trust in the business world and provide a more predictable business environment for investors.
Reducing Inequalities (SDG 10)
The 10th goal of the Global Goals aims to reduce inequalities within and among countries. ADR methods offer fair and equitable solutions accessible to all individuals in society. They play an important role, especially in protecting the rights and ensuring the equality of disadvantaged groups. ADR ensures equal access to legal processes for everyone and makes justice accessible to all. ADR methods are effective tools in protecting and defending the rights of disadvantaged groups.
Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11)
The 11th goal of the Global Goals aims to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. Resolving disputes within communities through peaceful means creates more sustainable and livable cities. It helps local governments and communities address issues quickly and effectively. The rapid and effective resolution of disputes within the community increases social cohesion and trust. ADR helps local governments create more livable and sustainable cities by resolving conflicts within the community through peaceful means.
Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17)
The 17th goal of the Global Goals aims to strengthen implementation tools for sustainable development and revitalize the global partnership. ADR methods contribute to the development of international cooperation and partnerships. The peaceful resolution of global disputes creates trust and stability in international relations. This supports the establishment of strong and effective partnerships necessary for sustainable development. ADR facilitates cooperation and dialogue between countries and international organizations, making it easier to achieve sustainable development goals. It also creates the climate of trust needed to strengthen global partnerships and allows for constructive resolution of disputes.
Sustainability and ADR methods have the potential to provide solutions to today’s complex and interconnected problems. While the Global Goals offer a roadmap to build a more just, peaceful, and sustainable future worldwide, ADR methods stand out as an important tool in achieving these goals. The flexible and effective solutions provided by ADR in critical areas such as peace, justice, economic growth, equality, sustainable cities, and global cooperation contribute to making societies more harmonious and resilient. Achieving sustainable development goals requires the efforts of not only governments and large institutions but also individuals and communities. This joint effort will help create a more just and livable world. Every step taken towards a sustainable future with the peaceful solutions of ADR will play an important role in carrying humanity into the future.