The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Mission Statement is to promote sustainable and equitable economic growth and socio-economic development through efficient, productive systems, deeper co-operation and integration, good governance, and durable peace and security; so that the region emerges as a competitive and effective player in international relations and the world economy.

In order to fulfil this mission Member States are guided by the following principles, as stated in Article 4 of the SADC Treaty:

• Sovereign equality of all Member States;
• Solidarity, peace and security;
• Human rights, democracy and the rule of law;
• Equity, balance and mutual benefit; and
• Peaceful settlement of disputes.