On 20 May 2026, UNU, The University of Tokyo and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) will co-organize the event “The Role of Universities in International Cooperation Based on Multilateralism”. This event will begin at 13:30 in the Yasuda Auditorium on the Hongo Campus of The University of Tokyo.
Amid rising geopolitical tensions and deepening global fragmentation, scepticism towards multilateralism is increasing, posing a significant challenge to the United Nations system. While the UN is currently undertaking a major system-wide transformation under the UN80 Initiative, institutional reform alone will not be enough to ensure lasting peace, stability and sustainable livelihoods in the years ahead.
This event will bring together senior leadership from UNDP, President of the University of Tokyo Dr. Teruo Fujii and UNU Senior Vice-Rector Prof. Aya Suzuki, as well as students who will help shape the future of the international community. Together, participants will explore the value of multilateral cooperation, the evolving role of the United Nations and the critical role universities must play in nurturing the next generation of global leaders.
Programme
Opening remarks
- Dr. Teruo Fujii, President, The University of Tokyo
Introduction to Univ. of Tokyo global initiatives
- Kaori Hayashi, Executive Vice President, The University of Tokyo
Keynote speech
- Alexander De Croo, Administrator, UNDP / Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations
Panel discussion with students
- Moderator: Prof. Aya Suzuki, Special Assistant to the President, The University of Tokyo / Senior Vice-Rector, UNU / Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations
Panellists:
Kaori Hayashi, Executive Vice President, UTokyo
Shen Xiaomeng, Vice-Rector in Europe of UNU & Director of UNU-EHS
Chika Kondoh, TICAD Partnership Specialist, UNDP
UTokyo: 2 graduate students, 2 undergraduate students
Event MC: Prof. Kensuke Fukushi, Director and Professor, Institute for Future Initiatives, The University of Tokyo
For the latest information on this event, please visit The University of Tokyo website.
