UNU-IAS Policy Brief Series

Overview

  • UNU-IAS Policy Briefs present analysis and policy recommendations for addressing sustainability challenges, in a short and accessible format. The series aims to inform high-level policymaking and debates, enhancing research uptake and providing actionable recommendations for decision-makers at the global, national and local levels.

    Each policy brief is the result of UNU-IAS research within the institute’s four thematic areas: governance for sustainable development, biodiversity & society, water & resource management, and innovation & education. Launched in 2015, the series is designed to complement more in-depth UNU-IAS academic publications such as journal articles, books and working papers. An external peer review process engages both scholars and policymakers to ensure quality, accuracy and added value.

    This publication series is a key initiative for the policy development role that is at the core of the UNU-IAS mandate. It recognizes that strengthening links between research and policymaking is critical to advancing global sustainability, as emphasised in global agreements such as the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement on climate change.

    All UNU-IAS Policy Briefs are available to read and download through UNU Collections.

    Latest Policy Briefs

    Bridging the Governance Gap: Protecting the Education Rights of Climate Displaced Persons in South and Southeast Asia

    No. 40, 2023

    This brief provides recommendations on ensuring education and learning continuity for people affected by climate-induced displacement. It identifies policy gaps contributing to the persistence of learning disruptions, and offers guidance on building education systems resilient to the impacts of climate change. Based on research conducted by UNU-IAS and UNESCO in Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Tuvalu and Viet Nam, the brief is authored by Ying-Syuan (Elaine) Huang, Philip Vaughter, and Jonghwi Park.

    Summary | Download

    Leaving No One Behind in Carbon Neutrality Strategies: Insights from Developing Countries in Asia and the Pacific

    No. 39, 2023

    This brief identifies approaches to ensure a just and fair transition to carbon neutrality in developing countries, including targeted engagement and support measures for vulnerable populations. It offers recommendations for policymakers to mitigate the negative social and economic impacts of low-carbon initiatives while securing public support. The brief is authored by Mahesti Okitasari and Upalat Korwatanasakul.

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    Recognising and Supporting the Role of Culture in Effective Area-based Conservation

    No. 38, 2022

    This policy brief calls for recognising and supporting local cultures that create biodiversity benefits through sustainable human–nature relationships. Drawing on the experiences of socio-ecological production landscapes and seascapes (SEPLS), it provides recommendations for sustainable land-use management policies that are inclusive, equitable, and incorporate traditional knowledge. It is authored by William Dunbar, Suneetha M. Subramanian, and Makiko Yanagiya.

    Summary | Download

    Managing the Impact of COVID-19 on City Finances

    No. 37, 2022

    This brief provides recommendations for managing the impacts of the COVID-19 crisis on city finances, detailing how municipalities can improve fiscal policy and financial management systems to accelerate recovery and build resilience. It identifies strategies such as fiscal optimisation, participatory budgeting, and public-private partnerships to avoid financial collapse and deliver sustainable development actions. The brief is authored by Mahesti Okitasari, Richa Kandpal, and Upalat Korwatanasakul.

     

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