In an increasingly interconnected world, advancing the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 requires strengthened cooperation among governments, international organizations, academia, and civil society. As the regional development arm of the United Nations for the Asia-Pacific region, United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) is committed to promoting inclusive and sustainable development while fostering greater understanding of regional and global development challenges among future leaders.

In collaboration with the Faculty of International Relations at Ritsumeikan University, ESCAP is pleased to host a student study visit to its headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand. The visit will provide students with an opportunity to engage directly with United Nations professionals and gain first-hand insight into the work of the Organization in supporting sustainable development across the Asia-Pacific region.

Through interactive briefings, discussions, and exchanges with ESCAP officials, the programme aims to connect academic learning with practical perspectives on international cooperation, multilateral policymaking, and regional development. The visit will also offer students greater exposure to the role of the United Nations in addressing emerging economic, social, environmental, and technological challenges, while highlighting the importance of partnerships in advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Programme objectives

• Provide students with the opportunity to visit the United Nations headquarters in Bangkok and gain first-hand insight into the work of the UN in advancing sustainable development across the Asia-Pacific region.
• Facilitate dialogue and knowledge-sharing through briefings and discussions with ESCAP officials and United Nations personnel.
• Enhance students’ understanding of regional and global development issues, including the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals.
• Promote collaboration between academic institutions and the United Nations in fostering awareness, research, and engagement on sustainable development issues.

Programme goals

• Strengthen students’ understanding of the mandate, priorities, and ongoing work of ESCAP through direct engagement with United Nations officials.
• Inspire students to explore careers in international affairs and sustainable development through interaction with professionals working in the multilateral system.
• Support students’ academic and professional development by providing practical insight into the work of international civil servants and regional cooperation mechanisms.
• Foster greater appreciation of the role of partnerships between universities and international