In December 2024, Professor Sir Hilary Beckles was unanimously appointed by the United Nations University (UNU) Governance Council in Tokyo as Chairman and Chancellor of the United Nations University (UNU), effective May 2025. The Council’s decision reflected Sir Hilary’s global reputation as a visionary leader and thought leader in higher education and development, coinciding with UNU’s landmark 50th anniversary. Sir Hilary has distinguished himself internationally, drawing on a wealth of experience in senior roles with the United Nations and UNESCO. His past contributions included serving as Consultant to the UN Development Report for Latin America and the Caribbean, Vice President of UNESCO’s Slave Routes Project, and Special Advisor to two UN Secretaries-General on Sustainable Development. He also addressed the UN General Assembly twice, championing the International Decade for People of African Descent and Reparatory Justice, and addressed the UN Security Council on global peace in the context of a digitised North-South divide.

Sir Hilary’s leadership also underpinned The UWI’s designation as the global hub for Climate Action (SDG 13) and the establishment of its International School for Development Justice. As Chairman and Chancellor, his mandate includes guiding UNU’s Council and supporting the Rector/ Vice-Chancellor to build confidence among stakeholders across the international academic and development community. In accepting the role, Sir Hilary expressed his gratitude for the Council’s trust and pledged to advance UNU’s global standing as it celebrated its 50th year. He described the appointment as a profound honour for The UWI, the Caribbean, and emerging communities in the Global South.