Progress towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is increasingly influenced by the role of universities as institutions that produce policy-relevant research and engage with its practical application. In the context of SDG 16, Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, this is reflected in the ways in which universities inform discussions on governance and support the development of more effective institutional approaches.
Drawing on data from the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2025, complemented by insights from the newly released Impact Ratings 2026, this webinar will explore how universities are contributing to SDG 16 through their research on peace and justice and their engagement in providing expert advice to government. Examining performance across an overall SDG 16 score and two of its contributing indicators, the session will highlight key findings from THE’s recent whitepaper, United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions: How universities are contributing to a more peaceful and just society.
Alongside data insights, the webinar will present case studies from Queen’s University (Canada) and Durham University (UK), each of which showcase exemplary university practice in informing policy, strengthening governance and driving meaningful societal impact.
We invite you to this webinar, where we will present the key findings from the report and hear directly from representatives of the feature case study universities as they share their experiences of strengthening governance and working in partnership to address complex challenges.
Speakers:
Emily Owen: Senior Consultant | Times Higher Education
Zara Brown: Research Executive, Consultancy | Times Higher Education
Professor Catherine Turner | Durham University, UK
Dr Gemma Davies | Durham University, UK
Dr Michael Murphy | Queen's University, Canada