UN merges two learning agencies as part of general reform

A the new entity, which will be operational in 2027 and will be based in Geneva, Switzerland, is the result of the merger of the United Nations School of Officials (UNSSC) with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR).

“ This decision represents an important step forward in the ‘UN80 Initiative’ of the Secretary-General and is part of the broader consolidation of the training and research capabilities of the United Nations system,” UN spokesman Stéphane Dujarric said at his daily press conference.

“ The adoption of this decision during the 80th session of the General Assembly has a special meaning,” he added.

The merger of UNICLI agencies, he said, creates “a stronger and more integrated platform for institutional learning, training and transformation”, key factors to boost “the UN’s effectiveness, reform and impact”.

The “UN80 Initiative”, launched last year by Secretary General António Guterres, is a reform plan to improve the efficiency of the agency and respond to its liquidity crisis, predicting, among other points, an average cost cut of 15% by the end of 2026 and staff reductions of up to 20% in some areas.

“UNICLI will bring together the complementary strengths of UNITAR’s leadership in training and training for Member States, diplomats and institutions, and UNSSC’s experience in learning, leadership development and knowledge management for UN officials,” said a statement from the merging agencies.

The new entity is operational on January 1, 2027, after a gradual transition.

Although its headquarters is in Geneva, the city of Turin, Italy, will continue to function as a “learning camp and meeting place”, while the cities of “Bona, Hiroshima, New York and Madrid will continue to perform their current functions,” the statement detailed.