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).
News
Sinking Earth, Vanishing Water: New Global Analysis Reveals Extensive Land Subsidence Threatening 19% of World Population
Satellite analysis warns that widespread land subsidence threatens 1.6 billion people by 2040, with 86% of the at-risk population concentrated in Asia
Media Coverage
Simone Sandholz featured in El País on why 2026 could redefine climate action in Latin America and the Caribbean
UNU-EHS expert Simone Sandholz wrote an op-ed for El País to highlight why 2026 could redefine climate action in Latin America and the Caribbean.
News
Students Share COP30 Experiences and Climate Ambitions
A debrief session featured youth insights after attending the 2025 UN Climate Change Conference.
Event
Launch of Global Water Bankruptcy Report at the Press Briefing of the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General in New York
The report declares the dawn of an era of global water bankruptcy, inviting world leaders to facilitate “honest, science-based adaptation to a new reality.”
Event
Global Water Bankruptcy in Focus: High-Level Report Launch and Policy Roundtable at UN HQ
This roundtable co-hosted by UNU-INWEH and the Permanent Missions of Canada to the UN will discuss emerging opportunities in global water policy
Person
Prof. Dr. Fiona Tregenna
Professor Fiona Tregenna is Director (D1) of The United Nations University – Maastricht Economic and Social Research Institute on Innovation and Technology (UNU-MERIT)
Expert
Dr. Yulia Kuznetsova
Dr. Yulia Kuznetsova is an Associate Expert at UNU-FLORES.
Event
ONLINE: Insights from UNU Junior Fellows — Pathways to International Careers
A panel discussion featuring Junior Fellows from the UNU Paris Office and the Office of the Rector at UNU Headquarters.