A number of UN bodies are based in the Netherlands, with mandates ranging from humanitarian coordination and development to research and international law and security.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) works to protect refugees and displaced persons and supports states in the implementation of international obligations in this respect. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) focuses on sustainable development, poverty reduction and institutional strengthening and to this end works together with governments and international partners worldwide.

In the field of humanitarian aid, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) plays a central role in the international coordination of emergency aid and humanitarian response to crises and conflicts.

Additionally, a number of UN bodies with specific knowledge and research profiles are based in the Netherlands. The United Nations University – Maastricht Economic and Social Research Institute on Innovation and Technology (UNU-MERIT) conducts research and organises training courses on development, innovation and policy, with a strong focus on linking academic knowledge and policy practice. And the United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI)’s Centre for AI and Robotics examines the impact of new technologies like artificial intelligence on international issues relating to crime, justice and security.

The Netherlands attaches great value to its role as host country for these UN organisations.
In an increasingly complex international context, the UN system continues to be an important framework for multilateral cooperation.