Course Description: Introduction to the United Nations
Course Code: UNAANSW001
Duration: 1 hour
Prerequisite: None
Target Audience
This course is designed for:
• Professionals interested in global affairs and international cooperation
• Corporate and organisational leaders seeking a better understanding of global governance
• Students studying international relations, politics, or global development
• Individuals working in sectors connected to international policy, sustainability, or humanitarian work
• Anyone seeking a foundational understanding of how the United Nations operates
No prior knowledge of the United Nations or international relations is required.
Course Overview
The United Nations is the world’s primary institution for international cooperation. Established in 1945, it plays a central role in maintaining peace and security, promoting human rights, supporting humanitarian response, and advancing global sustainable development.
This session provides a practical introduction to the structure, functions, and impact of the United Nations, along with an overview of the key challenges facing the organisation in today’s geopolitical environment.
Participants will gain a clear understanding of how the UN system operates and why it remains an important platform for international cooperation.
Learning Goals
By the end of the session, participants will be able to:
• Understand the origins and purpose of the United Nations
• Identify the main institutions within the UN system
• Recognise the key areas of UN activity, including peacekeeping, human rights, and development
• Understand the role of international law within the UN system
• Identify the major challenges facing the UN today
• Understand the significance of the UN80 initiative and ongoing discussions about the future of global governance.
Key Topics Covered
• The origins and founding principles of the United Nations
• The UN Charter and the purposes of the organisation
• The six principal organs of the UN
• The wider UN system and specialised agencies
• The role of the UN in international law
• Peacekeeping, humanitarian action, and sustainable development
• Current global challenges and the future of the United Nations
Learning Outcomes
Participants will leave the session with:
• A clear understanding of how the United Nations works
• Greater awareness of the organisation’s role in addressing global challenges
• Insight into the current debates about the future of international cooperation