United National University - Institute for Environment and Human Security

UNU-EHS, established in December 2003, is part of the United Nations University (UNU) system, a worldwide network of Research and Training Institutes. Its mission is to advance human security through knowledge-based approaches to reducing vulnerability and environmental risks.

The Institute explores problems and promotes solutions related to the environmental dimensions of human security, a concept which puts the individual, social groups and their livelihoods at the centre of debate, analysis and policy.

UNU-EHS aims at scientific excellence in two broad thematic areas:

• Vulnerability assessment, resilience analysis, risk management and adaptation strategies within linked human-environment systems; and

• Internal displacement and transboundary migration due to environmental push-factors.

The interdisciplinary research examines the impacts of major drivers affecting human security, such as rapid- and gradual-onset environmental change – including climate change. The drivers include phenomena, such as floods, desertification and land degradation, water depletion and water quality deterioration, and a range of climate change impacts. The research explores ways to improve human security through vulnerability reduction, disaster risk management and adaptation strategies.