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

Peace and partnerships — topics on fostering peaceful, just, and inclusive societies

Showing 1-10 of 4536 results

Project 19 Jan 2038

Flexible Office: Concept for Resource Optimisation (FLORES)

This project at UNU FLORES seeks to make a significant shift from fixed desks assigned to each employee to spaces designed according to functions and needs

Multimedia 29 Dec 2025

Video: UNU-INRA, WASCAL LANDSURF Dissemination Workshop.

An interview with INRA researcher, Barbara Baidoo during dissemination workshop.

News 14 Jul 2025

UNU Co-hosts Opening Ceremony for Exhibition Commemorating Hiroshima and Nagasaki Bombings

The event brought together civic leaders, government representatives and a bomb survivor to reaffirm commitments to peace.

Side Event -

Societies in Harmony with Nature: Building Sustainable and Resilient Communities through the Implementation of the Satoyama Initiative and COMDEKS

ONLINE: This side event of the 2025 UN HLPF will explore the role of the Community Development & Knowledge Management for the Satoyama Initiative (COMDEKS)

Media Coverage 14 Jul 2025

UNU-IAS Experts Discuss Ecosystem Restoration on Nippon TV

An episode of the science education show "Tokoro-san no Megaten!" highlighted local landscape revitalization efforts in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan.

Brief 14 Jul 2025

Promoting Water Valuation for Urban Sustainable Development in Asia

Policy guidance on incorporating water valuation in policymaking for urban sustainable development in Asia.

Event -

SCIENCE TALK: The Geography of Invisible Vulnerabilities

Understanding the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)-Health Inequalities in Place

Article 10 Jul 2025

Focus on the Least Funded SDG – Lessons from the UN Ocean Conference Ahead of the High-level Political Forum

Aspirations are high, but trade-offs continue to threaten ocean sustainability.

BIG IDEAS Series -

Harnessing the Impact of Youth Participation in Policymaking and Decision-making

TOKYO & ONLINE: On 15 August 2025, UNU will host a BIG IDEAS Dialogue with Dr. Felipe Paullier, Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs.

Announcement 10 Jul 2025

UNU-EHS Researcher Nominated as Lead Author for Upcoming IPBES Assessment on Spatial Planning

UNU-EHS's Dr. Yvonne Walz to contribute to IPBES assessment on integrated biodiversity-inclusive spatial planning and ecological connectivity.