The University for Peace was established as a Treaty Organization, with a
Charter set out in an International Agreement specifically approved by the UN General
Assembly in Resolution 35/55 of 5 December 1980. It was established “with a clear
determination to provide humanity with an international institution of higher education for
peace and with the aim of promoting among all human beings the spirit of understanding,
tolerance and peaceful coexistence, to stimulate cooperation among peoples and to help
lessen obstacles and threats to world peace and progress, in keeping with the noble
aspirations proclaimed in the Charter of the United Nations”.
Activities
The strategy adopted by the Council of the University is aimed at gradually meeting the worldwide need for education for peace on a significant scale through Master’s Degree programmes. It also develops course materials and methodologies, and disseminates them in collaboration with universities throughout the world. Nine MA degree courses are currently offered, including an MA Programme in Natural Resources and Peace which is new for the academic year 2007-2008. The University is also renowned for short-term courses designed for mid-career professionals wishing to enhance their knowledge and competency. The academic programmes of the University are developed in close collaboration with long-established institutions of higher learning in both the Northern and Southern hemispheres. Research activities concentrate on new forms of conflict management.
Type of organisation:
Academic institutions
Established:
1980 (Geneva Office established in April 2000)
Number of staff:
5 in the Geneva Office, 80 at Headquarters (San José, Costa Rica)
Head/Director:
Executive Director (Geneva Office): Ameena Payne, Acting Rector: Georges Tsaï, President of the Council: Hon. William Martin
Subtitle:
Geneva Office
Cooperation
with UN departments, agencies and organizations as well as with universities (particularly in developing countries), research institutions, agencies and NGOs.
Publications
A full list of publications can be obtained from the Head Librarian at the
University’s Headquarters in Costa Rica.
