For technology-based social innovation
© Illustration, KI: Kristina Milkovic
For technology-based social innovation
ETH Zurich wants to play its part in solving global challenges by sharing its knowledge and technology. A successful partnership with the United Nations (UN) sees numerous ETH researchers harnessing research findings to help promote peace and security, develop humanitarian aid and fulfil the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A selection of existing and planned projects:
#1 Researching the effect of UN peacekeeping on local support
The Conflict Management and International Relations group at ETH is studying how UN peacekeeping supports local peace processes.
#2 Predicting conflict events for UN peace missions
The development of an AI-driven analytical tool to forecast the likelihood of violent outbreaks within existing peacekeeping missions.
#3 Peace negotiation database
The Peace Observatory is the most comprehensive database on peace negotiations in armed conflicts.
#4 Remote monitoring of armed conflicts
The use of remote sensing and machine learning to improve monitoring, early warning and damage assessment following major conflicts and/or natural disasters.
#5 SDG Data Availability Monitor
A software tool to identify data gaps in reporting on the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals. The more complete the data, the better the progress towards the 2030 Agenda can be measured.
#6 Global AI governance
ETH Professor Andreas Krause is one of 38 members on the advisory board that counsels the UN Secretary-General on key issues of artificial intelligence governance.
#7 Student access to research topics and data with social relevance
ETH students participate in United Nations internship programmes.
#8 Embedding ETH doctoral students within the UN
Doctoral students will have the chance to conduct research within UN organisations to better understand UN needs and processes.
#9 Peace mediation training
The MAS Mediation in Peace Processes programme is designed to train the next generation of peace mediators.
Project partners at ETH include:
- numerous relevant professorships
- ETH Center for Security Studies
- ETH for Development
- ETH AI Center
- ETH World Food System Center
Current and potential UN partners:
- Department of Peace Operations
- Development Programme
- Environment Programme
- World Food Programme
- Food and Agriculture Organization
- World Health Organization
- UNICEF
- UNHCR
- Executive Office of the Secretary-General
