From Transforming Nature to Transforming Humankind’s Relationship with Nature

On the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the United Nations last year, the United Nations launched a global consultation that included a survey responded by 1.5 million people from 193 countries. Within the framework of Duke Center for International and Global Studies (DUCIGS)’ Rethinking Diplomacy Program, the UN75 Webinar Series is dedicated to exploring the most relevant issues highlighted by the UN75 Global consultation report.  On the introductory event, on January 28, the UN team responsible for the initiative presented the rationale and the meticulous process behind such an unprecedented project.

On April 8, the second UN75 event welcomed Ms. Joyce Msuya, Deputy Director of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and UN Assistant Secretary-General, for a dialogue with the Duke community on the highest long-term priorities identified by the UN75 Report Climate Change and Environmental Issues. 

The conversation, moderated by Dr. Elizabeth Losos and Dr. William Pan from Duke University, was an opportunity to reflect on the role of environmental diplomacy in tackling a rather complex agenda in an increasingly uncertain future. Examining the means available for the implementation of the environmental agenda and in particular the agency’s ambitious plans, it is evident that this year’s multiple activities constitute a litmus test for UNEP's global leadership role as it celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2022.

This event was organized and hosted by DUCIGS, in partnership with the Nicholas Institute for Environmental Policy Solutions and the Duke Global Health Institute.