On 4 September 2025, UNU will host "Reassessing Multilateralism: The United Nations at a Crossroads", a special event in recognition of the UNU 50th anniversary. This event will be held in Japanese (without interpretation) in Elizabeth Rose Hall (5F) at United Nations University Headquarters.
The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) focus on common challenges shared across nations. These goals emphasize that all countries — regardless of their economic levels — must address these issues collectively. Rather than beginning with distinctions between developed and developing countries, the SDGs promote shared values and universal concerns. This approach marked a significant shift from the Millennium Development Goals, positioning the SDGs as a more inclusive global agenda.
However, despite these important ideals, the global context is not yet fully prepared to embrace them. Significant discrepancies and inequalities persist, largely influenced by differences in countries' economic levels. As we have experienced, we are connected across nations, regions, and communities. Globalization has become an unavoidable reality, marked by the movement of money, people, and goods across borders. While this is intended to bring shared benefits, its impacts are uneven and increasingly contested.
We are now witnessing a backlash against these global ties and relationships. Despite our deep interdependence, populism and nationalism are on the rise. Many people seek immediate results and personal gain without considering the broader, collective good. As a result, multilateralism and multi-stakeholder processes are facing serious challenges.
So, what can the United Nations, currently confronting numerous challenges, do to help mitigate this trend? Moreover, how can Japan, as a UN Member State, contribute to making the UN more responsive and effective? To help answer these questions, this event will bring together directors of UN agencies based in Japan to share their insights and suggestions.
Please note that this event will be held in Japanese without interpretation into other languages. Advance registration (by 3 September at 15:00) is required. Please click on the REGISTER button above to access the online registration page. Please be prepared to present identification at check-in.
Programme
Opening Remarks
Prof. Tshilidzi Marwala, Rector of the United Nations University (via pre-recorded video)
Presentations and Discussion
Part 1
- Ms. Kaoru Nemoto, Director, United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) Tokyo
- Ms. Eiko Narita, Chief, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Tokyo Representation Office
- Ms. Naoe Yakiya, Director, UN Women Japan Liaison Office
- Ms. Hideko Hadzialic, Director, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Representation Office in Tokyo
Part 2
- Ms. Fumio Adachi, Head, United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) ITPO Tokyo
- Ms. Eriko Hibi, Director, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Liaison Office in Japan
- Mr. Yasuhiro Tsumura, Representative, World Food Programme (WFP) Japan Office
Closing Remarks
Dr. Sawako Shirahase, Senior Vice-Rector of the United Nations University
UNU@50
This event is part of the UNU 50th anniversary celebration. To learn more, visit: https://unu.edu/unuat50
