Content Analysis of Master’s Theses at the Faculty of Law, University of Zawia, in Light of the (Goal 16) Sustainable Development

Abstract

The purposes of this study is to analyze the content of master’s theses at the Faculty of Law, University of Zawia and to assess their compatibility with Sustainable Development Goal 16, which focuses on promoting peace, enhancing justice, and building strong, effective, and accountable institutions. The study employed a descriptive-analytical methodology, using both quantitative and qualitative content analysis on a sample of 28 master’s theses completed 2015 ـ 2025.The quantitative results showed that 45% of the theses were directly related to SDG 16, while the remaining half did not directly address the goal, being predominantly doctrinal or traditional in nature. Among the SDG-related theses, justice and the rule of law were the most frequently addressed theme, followed by strong institutions and good governance, and then peace and security. The qualitative analysis revealed that the SDG 16 related theses demonstrated clarity of problem formulation, in-depth legal analysis, and a legislative reform orientation. However, they showed shortcomings in addressing preventive aspects, practical implementation mechanisms, and linking legal reform with social and political contexts. The study concludes that there is a research gap that necessitates redirecting legal research towards more integrated approaches combining legal analysis, governance, and peace-building, thereby enhancing the contribution of legal studies to achieving sustainable development objectives, particularly SDG 16.

 Keywords: Graduate