Behavioral Science Drives Better Decisions, Impact
Geneva, Switzerland – In the framework of UN 2.0 Week, UNITAR took part in the “Behavioural Science Panel – Delivering for Impact” held on 10 June 2025, bringing together Nearly 1,000 participants to explore how evidence-based understanding of human behaviour can improve policies, programmes, and outcomes, emphasising its critical role in transforming how the United Nations operates and delivers on its mandate.
The UN Secretary-General António Guterres UN 2.0 vision is rooted in a quintet of cutting-edge skills – data, digital transformation, behavioural science, innovation, and strategic foresight – essential for making the UN “nimble and agile” for the 21st century.
Mary MacLennan, Senior Advisor on Behavioural Science at the Executive Office of the Secretary-General, explained –
From Theory to Practice
UNITAR
Streamlining UN Operations
Under-Secretary-General Mr. Atul Khare highlighted how the Department of Operational Support is applying behavioural science to reduce administrative burdens and enhance productivity. His office collaborated with University College London to improve compliance with mandatory tasks, streamline recruitment, and enhance rostering systems.
Behavioural science is not a one-size-fits-all solution but rather a flexible, adaptive tool using evidence gathered through testing approaches,
Mr. Khare noted, emphasising the importance of remaining human-centred and client-focused.
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