UNU-MERIT's research focuses on the economic, social, technological and institutional dimensions of sustainable development. Through both disciplinary and multidisciplinary research, we examine how societies can foster inclusive and sustainable prosperity in a rapidly changing world.
Our work addresses a range of interconnected policy challenges, including economic development, innovation and technological change, digital transformation, public policy and governance, migration, social protection, poverty, inequality, human development, and climate action. Across these areas, we seek to understand how public institutions, markets, technologies, and social systems interact to shape development outcomes.
As a research institute of the United Nations University, our work is evidence-based, internationally oriented, and policy-relevant. We aim to contribute both to academic knowledge and to the design, implementation, and evaluation of public policies and innovation strategies. This includes engagement across the policy cycle, from agenda-setting and policy formulation to implementation, monitoring, and evaluation.
Our research supports the objectives of the Sustainable Development Goals and contributes to the broader efforts of the United Nations system to advance peace, progress, and prosperity in an equitable and sustainable manner around the world.
UNU-MERIT also hosts the UNESCO Chair on Science, Technology and Innovation for Sustainable Development for Latin America. The Chair strengthens research, teaching and policy engagement on science, technology and innovation, while supporting policymakers, researchers and institutions across the region.