Research Topics

Research and academic activities aligned with every Sustainable Development Goal

Topics Header Photo
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.
Charter of the United Nations University

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

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UNU Council Member UNU Council Member; Raffles Professor of Social Sciences, National University of Singapore

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 Junior Research Fellow

Bavo Stevens

Bavo Stevens was a Junior Research Fellow at the UNU Institute on Globalization, Culture and Mobility (UNU-GCM).

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World Station Banquet on the Occasion of the 30th Anniversary of UNU-INWEH and the World Cities Day

The event celebrates 30 years of advancing water, environment and health, while marking World Cities Day and the role of cities in building a sustainable, water-secure future.

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Water in a Divided World - A Dialogue on New Global Trends, Shared Interests and Opportunities for Canada

The briefing will explore the convening role of water as a strategic entry point for dialogue and cooperation.

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2nd Conference of UNU Hubs in Richmond Hill

Hosted at UNU-INWEH, the conference will showcase progress and shape a coordinated roadmap for research, education and policy impact.

Feature 31 Oct 2026

Strengthening International Data Governance

Steve MacFeely on cross-border data exchange, multi-stakeholder cooperation and the role of the UN.

Feature 31 Oct 2026

Addressing Gaps in Global Governance

Jin Sun on global public goods, institutional cooperation and the role of the UN.

Feature 31 Oct 2026

Building Trust and Inclusion in Global Governance

Sarwat Adnan on trust, inclusive decision-making and the role of the UN in global cooperation.

Feature 31 Oct 2026

Advancing Multi-Stakeholder AI Governance

Hongyu Fu on international consensus, institutional experimentation and people-centred AI governance.

Feature 31 Oct 2026

How Global Governance Works

Thomas Biersteker on the nature of global governance, institutional innovation and the evolution of multilateralism.