Durham University is home to world-leading interdisciplinary research. Our legal scholars, academics, and scientists are actively involved in addressing the complex legal, social, and scientific issues in relatio to climate change, sustainability, and biodiversity. Durham University was granted observer NGO status at COP26 which took place in Glasgow, United Kingdom in 2021. We are committed to sharing knowledge globally and enhancing sustainable development for future generations.

The fairness discourse in international law has a new interlocutory face—the concept of just transition. A just transition promises better futures for all, based on ambitious mitigation, enhancing adaptation, and improving social resilience amidst climate disruption and underlying vulnerabilities. Our theory of change is that just transitions depend on the empowerment of women and youth to lead societies into a sustainable, equitable and fairer future. Durham University is the main host NGO.

We continue to see a range of global challenges brought about by issues that we need to tackle together. Climate change, energy use, sustainable living and disease are just some of the many world-changing areas that we need to focus on now to help make a positive long-term difference. We offer a wide range of programmes, covering many subject areas which help our students become global leaders of change.