4 September 2026 - The United Nations General Assembly has adopted resolution (resolution A/80/L.112 (adopted 3 Sept 2026)), approving the merger of the United Nations System Staff College (UNSSC) into the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and establishing the United Nations Institute for Capability and Learning Innovation (UNICLI).

This landmark decision creates a stronger, more integrated platform for learning, capability development, and institutional transformation, positioning these functions as strategic enablers of United Nations effectiveness and reform, and impact for Member States.

The merger forms part of the broader UN80 Initiative, which seeks to enhance coherence, effectiveness, and performance of the United Nations system. 

It represents an important step in enhancing how the United Nations supports Member States in advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The decision responds to a rapidly changing global environment in which Member States and the United Nations system face increasingly complex and interconnected challenges, including rising inequality and slow progress toward the SDGs, geopolitical fragmentation and conflict, humanitarian crises, climate change and environmental degradation, technological disruption, and institutional capacity gaps. Addressing these challenges requires individuals and institutions to learn continuously, develop new skills and capabilities, use data and technology responsibly, translate knowledge into practical action, and adapt to changing circumstances.

The future United Nations Institute for Capability and Learning Innovation is designed to meet this need by providing a more coherent, agile, and forward-looking platform for learning, capability development, and institutional transformation.

For UNITAR and UNSSC, the merger marks the beginning of a new chapter, bringing together complementary mandates, strong institutional legacies, and a shared commitment to strengthening the capacities of people and institutions to deliver meaningful and sustainable results.

UNICLI will build on the distinctive strengths of both institutions.

UNITAR’s long-standing leadership in capacity development for Member States, public institutions, diplomats and development practitioners will be combined with UNSSC’s role as the United Nations system’s trusted partner for learning, leadership development and organizational transformation. 

The objective is not simply organizational consolidation.  It is to create a more integrated platform capable of delivering learning, advisory, and capability-building solutions that support institutional adaptation, innovation, and performance. 

For Member States, United Nations entities and partners, UNICLI will provide a clearer entry point to a broader range of services, reduce fragmentation, and improve access to expertise and support. 

The transition will be implemented through a phased approach to ensure operational continuity, effective programme delivery, financial stability, legal certainty, and stakeholder confidence. 

Phase 1: Transition and Preparation

Until 31 December 2026, UNITAR and UNSSC will continue to operate as separate entities under their existing statutes.  During this period, the two organizations will undertake the legal, operational, governance, and organizational preparations necessary for the successful establishment of UNICLI successfully. For learners, partners, donors, and clients, the immediate message is continuity.  All programmes, learning and knowledge services, partnership activities, donor-funded initiatives, and existing commitments will continue without interruption throughout the transition period.  

Phase 2 – Launch and Implementation of UNICLI

On 1 January 2027, the United Nations Institute for Capability and Learning Innovation (UNICLI) will be formally established. 

From that point forward, implementation efforts will focus on stabilizing operations, harmonizing structures and systems, integrating capabilities, and progressively putting in place the target operating model for the new organization. This broader transformation will continue throughout 2027, with full implementation expected by year-end. 

The General Assembly’s decision marks the beginning of a deliberate and strategic transformation. By bringing together the complementary strengths of UNITAR and UNSSC, UNICLI will reduce fragmentation and create a more coherent, agile, and future-oriented platform for learning, capability development, and institutional transformation across the United Nations system.

As the transition progresses, UNITAR and UNSSC remain committed to ensuring continuity of service and close engagement with Member States, partners, donors, learners, and United Nations personnel. Through UNICLI, the United Nations has an opportunity to strengthen the capabilities of people and institutions, accelerate sustainable development, and enhance its ability to respond effectively to the complex challenges of a rapidly changing world.