Preventing violent conflict and creating pathways for peace has been core to the UN’s work since its founding. UNU-CPR’s work in this area has ranged from in-depth, field-driven research in particular conflict and peacebuilding settings, to tracking transnational threats and risks and identifying ways that the multilateral system might respond to conflict risks.
Our work seeks to identify both problems and possible solutions, addressing questions like: How is climate contributing to local, national or international conflict drivers and vulnerabilities? How do changes in transnational armed group patterns or geopolitical dynamics affect prospects for conflict mediation and mitigation? Are current models for peace operations and peacebuilding still fit-for-purpose? How can emerging technologies and practices contribute to conflict prevention and safeguards against the erosion of rights?
We work with UN entities and bodies, regional organizations, Member States, and a range of civil society partners to identify the answers to these questions – and to lead the way in developing best practices and innovative approaches.
