UNU@50

Generating knowledge to transform the world since 1975

UNU@50

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.

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.