UNU Council members serve for a period of six-years. Former Council members have included directors of research institutes; university deans, vice-chancellors, rectors, professors or presidents; government officials; consultants; ambassadors; and board chairpersons or trustees. Upon completion of their term, a number of former Council members have remained active within the UN system, serving, for example, as directors or executive directors of UN agencies.

Former members are listed by term period, which can be selected in the menu on the left.