UN agencies and academic institutions forge a fruitful partnership via the GIAN

Jennifer Holloway, GIAN

In 2003, the Geneva International Academic Network (RUIG-GIAN) approved seven research projects in the framework of its annual «Call for Project Proposals.» A unique network, the GIAN has remained true to its mission to encourage collaboration between academic institutions and international organizations - both govern- mental and non-governmental - in the service of peace and justice. Through its annual tendering procedure and «Small Grants» program, the GIAN provides financial support to action-oriented research projects that address at least one of the following thematic areas: sustain- able development; social equity; globalization and international commerce; intercultural relations and dialogue; and humanitarian law and human rights.

Created by the University of Geneva, the Graduate Institute of International Studies (GIIS), and the Graduate Institute of Development Studies (GIDS), in collaboration with the United Nations Office at Geneva and several UN agencies, the GIAN has provided a total of more than SFr 6 million to multidisciplinary research projects concerning international issues since the beginning of operations in 2001.

Each of the seven projects approved in 2003 counts among its research team representatives of one or more United Nations agencies who will collaborate actively with the university community to effect research intended to achieve practical outcomes. The projects cover a variety of thematic areas ranging from an analysis of the management of human genetic information, undertaken by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and partners from the University of Geneva, to a study of the implications for employment posed by conflict, crises, and natural disasters, led by a team from the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the Graduate Institute of International Studies (GIIS). The diversity of the projects supported by the GIAN is an effective reflection of the multiple qualities that compose the kaleidoscope of international Geneva.

In 2004, the GIAN will dispose of a budget of SFr 2 million to finance research activities. The submission deadline for the 2004 «Call for Project Proposals» is April 7. In addition to its annual tendering procedure, the «Small Grants» program allows the GIAN to support projects with sums of up to SFr 50,000. «Small Grants» proposals may be submitted at any time.

With 20 research projects currently under- way and several «Small Grants» already completed, the GIAN has established itself as a valuable intermediary between international organizations and the academic community in Geneva and beyond. Its successful partnership with UN agencies and ability to contribute to the reputation of the Geneva academic community will depend on the quality, the creativity, and the utility of the projects that it funds. The doors of the GIAN office, located in the Villa Rigot, are open to interested personnel of the United Nations family and NGOs. More information and updates are available in French and English at the GIAN website (www.ruig-gian.org).