The Myth of Scholarly Irrelevance for the United Nations

In the case of the United Nations, scholars have had an impact in fostering ideas and policies, including human development, climate change, global compact, sovereignty as responsibility, and human security. Of the three-headed UN monster—the first UN of member states, the second UN of staff members, scholars constitute a key part of the third UN of those closely associated with the world body but independent from it. Scholars' roles include research, policy analysis, and idea mongering. They have been able to exert influence as consultants, commissioners, and temporary staffs.