Research Topics

Research and academic activities aligned with every Sustainable Development Goal

Topics Header Photo
The University shall devote its work to research into the pressing global problems of human survival, development and welfare that are the concern of the United Nations and its agencies.
Charter of the United Nations University

People — topics on improving lives of people everywhere

Planet — topics on preserving and improving our environment and natural resources

Peace and partnerships — topics on fostering peaceful, just, and inclusive societies

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UNU Council Member UNU Council Member; Raffles Professor of Social Sciences, National University of Singapore

Prof. Brenda Yeoh

Professor Brenda S.A. Yeoh is a Singaporean scholar and expert in the fields of migration, social geography, and the politics of space in colonial and post-colonial cities.

Expert Junior Research Fellow

Bavo Stevens

Bavo Stevens was a Junior Research Fellow at the UNU Institute on Globalization, Culture and Mobility (UNU-GCM).

Blog Post 11 May 2026

Hidden Debts, Missing Assets: What the Spring Meetings Forgot

Debt transparency is advancing. But, until the world measures hidden assets too, the financial system will keep solving for the wrong equation.

Event -

The Role of Universities in International Cooperation Based on Multilateralism

On 20 May 2026, UNU will co-organize an event exploring the role of universities in advancing multilateral international cooperation.

Seminar -

Migration Seminar Series: Beyond attracting talent: what makes skilled migrants stay?

Dr. Julia Reinold on skilled migrant retention, onward migration, and the factors shaping long-term settlement.

Article 08 May 2026

What is Non-Economic Loss and Damage and Why does it Matter?

Explaining non‑economic loss and damage: how climate change affects lives, identity, culture and belonging in ways numbers can’t capture.

Conversation Series -

Addressing the Triple Planetary Crisis

On May 2026, UNU will host a conversation with Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme.

Event -

Albania’s Membership Path to the European Union: A Public Dialogue with Prime Minister Edi Rama

On 22 May 2026, UNU will host a special event featuring a keynote address by the Prime Minister of Albania.

Article 08 May 2026

Rational Opacity: Governing Intelligence Beyond Understanding

The very qualities that make AI valuable in governance are the ones that make it difficult to govern