This study presents a systematic review of how countries report on security sector governance and reform (SSG/R) within the context of sustainable development, specifically through Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs), which serve as the main tool for states to report on their progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The Reviews offer insight into how countries view the role of SSG/R in promoting sustainable development, particularly in connection with SDG 16 on peace, justice and strong institutions.

To explore this, the study analyzed 165 Reviews submitted between 2020 and 2023, building on a previous DCAF study of VNRs from 2016 to 2019. The aim was to assess whether and to what extent states acknowledge the role of their security sector in advancing the SDGs and how they view reforms or changes within their security sector in relation to these goals, ultimately illustrating how SSG/R can contribute to and drive sustainable development.

The findings will be of interest to SSR practitioners who aim to better utilize VNRs as a tool for reporting how SSG/R initiatives contribute to the achievement of the SDGs.

Additionally, the study serves as a valuable resource for national and international policymakers engaged in the development and/or review of VNRs, as well as for civil society and independent oversight bodies striving to hold governments accountable for their commitments to advancing good governance in the security sector.