A legacy of impact
Since 1975, UNU has grown from an office in Tokyo to a global network of institutes on five continents. For 50 years, UNU has contributed research expertise to support the efforts of the UN system and to generate evidence-based solutions to the world's most pressing problems.
António Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General:
For half a century, university leaders, staff, students and alumni have driven peace and progress by bridging the worlds of education, research and policy, by acting as a trusted source for evidence-based policymaking, and by uniting the world through knowledge and partnerships that address our most pressing global challenges. The United Nations University is truly multilateralism in action.
Izumi Nakamitsu, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for Disarmament Affairs:
The role of policy analysis, education, research and evidence-based solutions is key to laying down weapons, ensuring our sustainable future and promoting meaningful social change. The United Nations University, with its 13 institutes in 12 countries, is at the centre of these efforts, providing the knowledge, insights and innovation needed to respond to the world’s most pressing challenges.
Tshilidzi Marwala, UNU Rector and United Nations Under-Secretary-General:
Throughout the past 50 years, UNU has made immense strides in its mission to provide education, research and evidence-based solutions for sustainable development. As we look ahead, UNU will continue its legacy of research excellence, but with a renewed focus on three priority areas — Knowledge, Partnerships, and Impact — particularly in the Global South.