We live in challenging times. On one hand, the second half of the 20th century has been characterized by broad-scale peace and greater improvements in human livelihood than in any other period of history. On the other, however, for many people on the planet the United Nations' goals of peace and prosperity seem as elusive as ever.
Poverty is still paramount.
Improvement will be slow and asks for creativity, commitment and perseverance. More than 130 million children never have an opportunity to go to school. Almost one quarter, again, of humankind does not have safe water to drink. The mission of the UNU remains as relevant today as when it was founded. Much has been achieved but much remains to be done as, since then, there have also been major shifts that have made the University's mission more complex and, at the same time, its role more important.