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
Project
Implications of Artificial Intelligence for peace, conflict and peacebuilding
Examining how AI-driven technologies influence conflict dynamics, with a specific focus on social media platforms in Sub-Saharan Africa.
News
User Needs First International Conference | Digital Governance in Amsterdam
UNU joined 600+ delegates at the User Needs First Conference in Amsterdam, 9-11 April, to explore citizen-centric digital government solutions.
Event
Societies in Harmony with Nature: Locally-led Landscape Approaches
ONLINE: This event will discuss implementation of the Community Development and Knowledge Management for the Satoyama Initiative Programme (COMDEKS).
News
UNU and ITTO Sign Memorandum of Understanding
The new agreement will support joint activities and knowledge exchange across research, education, events and advocacy.
Event
SCIENCE TALK: Material Needs for "Power to X" Technologies
Environmental Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Social Life Cycle Assessment (SLCA)
Project
AI for Good
Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for sustainable development
Project
Supporting the Secretary-General's Scientific Advisory Board
Fostering active conversations and bridging the gap between the global scientific community and UN leadership.
Conversation Series
Bridging Care Across Cultures: Designing Sociotechnical Systems for Ageing in a Global Society
On 25 April 2025, UNU will host a conversation with Dr. Elizabeth Mynatt, Dean of the Khoury College of Computer Sciences at Northeastern University.
BIG IDEAS Series
(Dis)Empowered by Context: Female Entrepreneurs, Firm Performance and Institutions
On 27 May 2025, UNU will host a BIG IDEAS Dialogue with Dr. Hanna Berkel, Research Fellow at UNU-WIDER.
Event
SCIENCE TALK: Co-Developing Integrated Water–Energy–Food Plus (WEF+) Nexus Scenarios
A People-Centered and Data-Informed Methodological Framework and Guidelines