UN and Global Order launch

How research can support and strengthen the United Nations

Please join us for a one-day conference, and launch of the UN and Global Order Programme at the University of Reading.

When: Thursday, 26 April, 2018, 9:15-4:30, registration begins at 8:45

Where: University of Reading, London Road Campus, LO22 G01

Admission is free, booking is essential. Book here: events@reading.ac.uk

This event will bring together academics, practitioners, civil society, and students and will showcase the key ways in which research supports and strengthens UN activities. Thematic panels on human rights, peacekeeping, and UN reform will identify and discuss current and future challenges and opportunities and how researchers and policymakers can work together to maximize the UN’s fulfilment of its mandate.

Keynote speeches :

  • Ian Martin, former Special Representative of the Secretary-General in Libya, Nepal, and Timor-Leste and Executive Director of Security Council Report,
  • Dominik Zaum, Research Dean for Prosperity & Resilience, University of Reading

 

About UNGOP

The UN and Global Order Programme at the University of Reading was established in 2017 to provide a major new forum for UN research within the UK. Bringing together academics working on peacekeeping and statebuilding, disaster risk reduction, human rights, food and agriculture, climate change, displacement and migration, and organisational culture, amongst others, the Programme supports both long-term and short-term research that informs and shapes policy and practice. Members and affiliates work with various UN bodies and operations, member states, regional organizations, civil society and non-governmental organizations, and other relevant stakeholders. To learn more about the Programme, and for a full list of our partners, see: https://research.reading.ac.uk/ungop/

Top UN expert’s resignation spells trouble for defenders of LGBT rights

United Nations, Geneva | Creative Commons/by Ludovic Courtès

by Rosa Freedman, School of Law, University of Reading

Vitit Muntarbhorn, the UN’s first Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, has resigned after a just year in his post, citing ill health and caring responsibilities. Before stepping down, he will deliver his second and final report. This is just the latest development in a long-running UN battle over LGBT rights – and it could herald a new attempt to undermine international efforts to protect and promote the fundamental human rights of LGBT individuals.

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