UNU and Maastricht University Renew Collaboration Agreement for UNU-MERIT

On 3 July 2025, Maastricht University and the United Nations University formally renewed their collaboration agreement for UNU-MERIT, their jointly governed research and training institute focused on policy, innovation, and global development. The ceremony, held at Lumière Maastricht in the presence of policymakers, diplomats, and university leadership, marked the beginning of a new chapter in a proven resilient and forward-thinking partnership.  

This updated agreement future-proofs the Institute. It equips UNU-MERIT with the legal, operational, and institutional clarity needed to remain academically excellent and policy-relevant amid rapidly shifting global dynamics. It also ensures the Institute can fully leverage the resources and comparative advantages of both parent institutions—UNU and UM—while maintaining the flexibility required to pursue new strategic priorities.  

UM's School of Business and Economics (SBE), which is the focal point of the collaboration on behalf of UM, is very pleased with the result. Prof. Heijltjes, Dean of SBE states “UNU-MERIT’s unique position at the intersection of academic excellence and policy directly supports our SBE's mission to address pressing societal challenges with evidence-based insight. As we enter this new chapter, we are excited to deepen our collaboration on forward-looking projects that translate academic knowledge into meaningful action.”  

Building on a Strong Foundation  

UNU-MERIT has a rich history rooted in an enduring partnership. What began in the 1980s as a feasibility study commissioned by the Dutch government to explore the role of technological innovation in development evolved into the founding of the UNU Institute for New Technologies (UNU-INTECH) in Maastricht. A decade later, that vision expanded through collaboration with Maastricht University’s MERIT research group, culminating in the creation of UNU-MERIT in 2006. In 2012, the Institute further integrated the Maastricht Graduate School of Governance, broadening its scope and student community.  

Today, UNU-MERIT brings together researchers, educators, and students from over 50 countries, delivering graduate education and conducting policy-relevant research on innovation, migration, digital governance, the future of work, and sustainable development. It offers two flagship degree programmes: a PhD in Governance and Policy Analysis and a dual Master of Science in Public Policy and Human Development (PPHD), co-delivered by UNU-MERIT and Maastricht University's School of Business and Economics and fully embedded in the university's academic ecosystem.  

Maastricht University President, Prof Letschert  expressed ‘Global engagement is vital for Maastricht University as it is an integral part of the values we adhere to.Through global engagement in education and research, we aim to contribute to sustainable development and global challenges. The close collaboration with UNU is of great significance in this. UNU-MERIT has built an excellent research and educational reputation over the past decades. The renewed cooperation agreement will help us ensure that this reputation can be carried forward into the future.’

A Partnership for the Future  

This new collaboration agreement is the product of extensive institutional dialogue over the past 18 months. Under the leadership of Prof. Dr Clemens Kool, interim Director of UNU-MERIT, and with the strategic and legal support of colleagues from both sides, the process resulted in a renewed framework that is deliberate, forward-looking, and better aligned with contemporary operational realities.  

The agreement clarifies governance and decision-making procedures while preserving UNU-MERIT’s unique dual identity. It confirms the Institute’s role as a fully integrated member of the UNU system and the Maastricht University community—rooted in its local academic context but serving a global mission.  

From the perspective of UNU, the partnership with Maastricht University is strategic and essential. UM provides the academic environment, disciplinary depth, and pedagogical innovation that enable UNU-MERIT to remain at the cutting edge of graduate education. From problem-based learning to its vibrant international campus, UM gives UNU-MERIT the tools to deliver high-quality academic programmes with global relevance.  

At the same time, UNU provides the Institute with its normative mission: to produce independent, policy-relevant research in service of the international community. The current UNU Strategy (2025–2029) highlights core thematic priorities such as inclusive digital transformation, resilient societies, and climate justice—all areas where UNU-MERIT contributes significantly through research, partnerships, and capacity-building efforts.  

The Rector of UNU, Prof Marwala, reflects "UNU-MERIT holds a special place within the UNU system. It stands at the nexus of rigorous academic inquiry and real-world policy engagement, precisely where the future of multilateralism must be forged. In a time of complex global challenges, we need institutions that bridge knowledge and action, that train not only the next generation of scholars but the next generation of public servants and global problem-solvers. That is what UNU-MERIT does, and that is why this renewed partnership matters."

Meeting the Moment: Multilateralism and Knowledge for Action  

In an era of increasing geopolitical complexity, technological disruption, and institutional fatigue, the mission of UNU-MERIT is more relevant than ever. The Institute is essential in advancing multilateralism—not in the abstract, but in practice. It trains civil servants worldwide, contributes to flagship UN reports, collaborates with other UNU institutes and UN agencies, and provides evidence-based insights that inform public policy.  

As a centre for excellence in education and research, UNU-MERIT will continue to:  

• Deliver rigorous, interdisciplinary graduate education through the PPHD and PhD programmes  
• Support governments and international organisations with capacity development offerings  
• Produce actionable research on migration, innovation, governance, and more  
• Build bridges between science, policy, and practice  

A Note of Thanks  

Both institutions expressed gratitude to the teams who made this agreement possible. From UNU, thanks were extended to Dr. Sabine Becker-Thierry, Executive Officer, and Mr. Francesco Foghetti, Senior Legal Officer. From UM, the leadership acknowledged the collaborative and constructive efforts of Mr Cyriel Heuts, Mr Mike Smeets, Ms Yvonne Schols and Ms Maaike van Eck for their legal and strategic support throughout the negotiation.  

Special recognition was given to Prof. Dr. Clemens Kool for his role in steering the process as interim Director. His dual responsibility—leading the Institute and guiding the negotiation—was instrumental in securing this new phase for UNU-MERIT.