24 October 2024, Geneva, Switzerland - On United Nations Day, observed every year on 24 October, the research and training institutes of the United Nations reaffirm their essential role in building an integrated, effective, and future-ready UN system that delivers for people. This day marks the anniversary of the entry into force of the UN Charter in 1945 - the founding moment of the Organization - and invites reflection on the UN's enduring mission to promote peace, development, and human rights and how knowledge and learning support that mission.
The United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI), the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR), the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), the United Nations Research Institute for Social Development (UNRISD), the United Nations System Staff College (UNSSC), and the United Nations University (UNU) bring specialized expertise and cutting-edge knowledge reflecting advanced research and innovative ideas to address the world's most pressing challenges.
Knowledge that drives action
As the UN marks its 80th anniversary, the world faces widening inequalities, persistent conflicts and a rise in overall violence, and human rights violations. Yet, it is also a time of rapid and transformative change, and unprecedented opportunity. Advances in artificial intelligence and global connectivity, renewable energy, food systems, and health are reshaping economies and societies and their governance.
Knowledge, however, does not automatically turn into action. Effective learning and skills renewal and enhancement, at both individual and organisational levels, are essential for growth, sustainable development and a peaceful future. This is supported by a vibrant, cohesive UN research and learning ecosystem.
The UN research and training entities together produce credible, impartial, interdisciplinary knowledge to inform global and national decision-making and supports learning by UN and partners alike to build the skills, mindsets, and adaptive capacities and foresight needed to navigate a rapidly changing global landscape and turn evidence and data into action for lasting change. Open access to such impartial and credible knowledge also strengthens public trust.
A shared responsibility for the future
The UN research and learning ecosystem is a crucial organisational investment. It enhances the UN's strategic decision-making, innovation, and institutional coherence, making the United Nations a more agile, coordinated, and future-ready partner in an increasingly complex world. The collective work of the UN research and training entities is vital in bridging understanding and turning knowledge to into impact in people's lives and their ability to live on a healthy and peaceful planet.
