Discussing key issues with key players
The UNU Conversation Series provides a unique public platform for influential experts, world leaders and respected scholars and authors to share personal insights on contemporary global affairs, politics, and media. Held in Tokyo at UNU Headquarters, the conversations are hosted and moderated by UNU Rector and UN Under-Secretary-General Tshilidzi Marwala. The events are free and open to the public, and offer a distinctly cordial atmosphere allowing the audience to engage with featured guests, ask questions and share their ideas, both during the conversations and at casual receptions that follow each event.
Key issues
Conversation Series topics span the full breadth of UNU’s work, touching on matters of critical importance to Japan and the world. Topics of discussion have included peace and security, international relations, migration, governance, sustainable development, climate change, employment, higher education and many others.
Key players
UNU has welcomed more than 100 notable speakers to the Conversation Series stage, including ambassadors, members of the Japanese government, United Nations leaders, distinguished academics, and public personalities from media and civil society.
Stay informed
If you would like to receive notifications about upcoming Conversation Series events — as well as other in-person and online events at UNU Headquarters in Tokyo and throughout Japan — please subscribe to the UNU Headquarters events mailing list.

Upcoming and previous conversations



Conversation Series
Healthy Land: Why Combating Desertification is Crucial for Human Security

Conversation Series
The Role of Education for Sustainable Development in Transforming Education


Conversation Series
Climate Action: Can We Avoid Climate Tipping Points Through Global Cooperation?



Conversation Series
Clean Water and Sanitation for All by 2030? What Needs to Be Done

Conversation Series
A Dialogue with Lord Patten: Japan and Britain in a Changing Asia

Conversation Series
Japan's Foreign Policy in Turbulent Times

Conversation Series
Artificial Intelligence and Society: On the Brink of Change


Conversation Series
Peacebuilding in the Wake of Ukraine and Sudan

Conversation Series
Unpacking the Just Energy Transition: A Development Priority for Africa


Conversation Series
A New Agenda for Peace: Opportunities and Next Steps for Disarmament


Conversation Series
The Future of Artificial Intelligence

Conversation Series