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.
People — topics on improving lives of people everywhere
Planet — topics on preserving and improving our environment and natural resources
Prosperity — topics on building a sustainable and fulfilling future
Peace and partnerships — topics on fostering peaceful, just, and inclusive societies
UNU Council Member
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
Bavo Stevens
Bavo Stevens was a Junior Research Fellow at the UNU Institute on Globalization, Culture and Mobility (UNU-GCM).
Expert
Isaiah Omondi Walwanga
Isaiah Omondi is a Youth Fellow in Global Water Security Assessment at UNU-INWEH.
Conference
UNU-MERIT Internal Conference 2026
UNU-MERIT’s Internal Conference is an annual event where researchers and fellows share work, exchange feedback, and strengthen collaboration.
Article
Amid rising tensions, ‘friendshoring’ might keep global trade alive
How US-China decoupling is reshaping global value chains and creating new opportunities for developing economies.
Expert
Sonali Abeysinghe
Sonali’s research focuses on sustainability assessment in the built environment sector, with particular emphasis on life cycle analysis (LCA), climate-neutral and resource-efficient construction, circular economy strategies, and the Resource Nexus approach.
Blog Post
Fitch’s Recent Revision Signals a Notable Shift in Sovereign Debt Governance
A technical change in Fitch’s ratings criteria could ease one of the biggest barriers to temporary debt relief for crisis-hit economies.
Blog Post
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.
Journal Article
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.