UNU/167

MAJOR RESEARCH INITIATIVE ON `UNITED NATIONS SYSTEM IN TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY' TO BE LAUNCHED BY UNU

17 November 1995


Press Release
UNU/167


MAJOR RESEARCH INITIATIVE ON `UNITED NATIONS SYSTEM IN TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY' TO BE LAUNCHED BY UNU

19951117 The United Nations University (UNU) will launch a major research initiative on "The United Nations System in the Twenty-First Century" at a symposium to be held at UNU headquarters in Tokyo on 21 and 22 November. The symposium is being organized by the UNU in cooperation with the Academic Council on the United Nations System and the International Cooperation and Research Association.

The objective of this six-year research project is to explore and suggest the most appropriate models for international organizations, especially the United Nations, that would best serve human needs in the twenty-first century.

During the first phase of the project, activities will be focused on examining the theoretical aspects of international institutions by evaluating the validity of their rationale and the concepts behind their various activities. The project will also take stock of the capabilities of the United Nations and seek to diagnose problems that currently plague the system. The second phase of the project will involve combining theoretical inquiries with empirical studies to produce visions and prognoses for international organization in the twenty-first century.

The project will make recommendations and policy suggestions that are feasible in the context of international political dynamics. Specific research topics will include States and sovereignty, global citizenship, regionalism, and international organizations and the International Civil Service.

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For information media. Not an official record.