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).
Media Coverage
How Credit Rating Agencies are Reshaping Development Finance
In Development Matters Daniel Cash explains how shifting credit rating methodologies are raising the lending power of multilateral development banks.
News
COP30 Events Feature Ishikawa Youth
A UNU-IAS youth empowerment initiative engaged two high school students from Japan at the 2025 UN Climate Change Conference in Belém, Brazil.
Seminar
Attracting Investment in the Digital Ecosystem to Advance the SDGs: Policy and Strategy Recommendations
The session will explore how FDI in the digital economy can be leveraged to advance national development priorities and the SDGs.
Conversation Series
Connecting Cultures: How Humour Speaks Louder than Words
On 16 December 2025, UNU will host a conversation with comedian and voice actor Patrick Harlan, also known as Pakkun.
News
COP30 Event Explores Youth-led Urban Futures
An event at the COP30 SDG Pavilion in Belém, Brazil discussed the role of youth in co-creating sustainable urban futures.
Report
Climate Change, Food Insecurity and Conflict
Understanding the climate-food-conflict nexus – and practical options to address climate-induced hunger and instability.
Seminar
Beyond Springboarding: How Chinese Companies Leapfrogged to Become Global Leaders in the Automotive Industry
MAASTRICHT & ONLINE: Our UNU-MERIT Seminar Series team is pleased to announce our upcoming research seminar featuring Gabriel R.G. Benito, Research Professor in the Department of Strategy and Entrepreneurship at the BI Norwegian Business School.