“There should be awareness among people that the role of law enforcers is to ensure public safety, peace and order. Law enforcers should be ready and able o help the public whenever they are at risk or in danger.” (FGD participant, Bangladesh)

“Security cannot be sustainable without an effective judiciary. Accountability systems are key in curbing security violations and addressing their roots.” (FGD participant, Libya)

“Good governance” – defined as transparent, accountable and inclusive government, following clear laws and listening to the concerns of the people – was identified by over 40 per cent of respondents as the most important element of the Sustaining Peace agenda. This was also supported by the FGDs, during which the participants highlighted the importance of institutionalizing peace. As Professor Aurora de Dios from the Women and Gender Institute in the Philippines underscored, to sustain peace “you have to achieve working institutions such as rule of law, peace agreements and processes and accountability. These should be institutionalized – not just functioning.” Good governance was also likened to accountability and access to justice. An FGD participant from Bangladesh said she does not consider her country to be peaceful because “if I face harassment, I have to think about the different possible [scenarios] before deciding to file a case or seek legal aid. I am afraid to go to the police station [because I might be] further harassed; and [I’m worried about] how society will see me in the future.”