United Nations University
United Nations University is an autonomous academic institution within the United Nations system that conducts research, postgraduate education and capacity development on pressing global problems. Established by the UN General Assembly in 1973 and headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, the university operates through a network of research institutes and programmes located around the world. Unlike traditional universities, it does not enrol undergraduate students but instead focuses on advanced research and training for scholars, policymakers and practitioners from developing and developed countries. The university's work spans themes including sustainable development, peace and security, human rights, global health and climate change. It collaborates with universities, research institutions and UN agencies to bridge the gap between academic research and policy action. The institution is governed by the UNU Council and funded by voluntary contributions from UN member states, foundations and other sources. Its research outputs inform international policy debates and support evidence-based decision-making within the UN and beyond. United Nations University also provides a platform for South–South and North–South knowledge exchange, particularly on issues affecting developing regions. Over the decades, it has expanded its footprint to include specialised institutes in Europe, Africa, Asia and Latin America, each addressing regional and thematic priorities.
United Nations University Updates
Mozambique’s economy is failing: the tough policy choices that need to be made urgently
6th May 2026 Mozambique is not in total crisis – but it is faltering. There has been no currency crash, no hyperinflation, no bank run. But over the past decade... →
Countries suffer when credit rating agencies lack data: how to fix the problem at source
9th April 2026 Some developing country governments spend years making the reforms that international financial institutions want – only to find that their efforts... →
Mozambique floods: why the most vulnerable keep paying the highest price
9th February 2026 When floods submerged parts of Mozambique after heavy rains in 2000, a baby girl was born in a tree, where her mother clung as the Limpopo river... →
Private credit rating agencies shape Africa’s access to debt. Better oversight is needed
4th February 2026 Africa’s development finance challenge has reached a critical point. Mounting debt pressure is squeezing fiscal space. And essential needs in... →
UN calls for reset as world enters era of global water bankruptcy
By: Natasha Odendaal 21st January 2026 The world has entered an era of global water bankruptcy, as many societies have overspent their yearly renewable water ‘income’ from rivers, soils... →
South Africa’s addressing system is still not in place: a clear vision is needed
9th January 2026 “Turn right after the first big tree; my house is the one with the yellow door.” In parts of South Africa, where settlements have grown without... →
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