UN-affiliated University of Peace gets new rector

A new rector has been named for the United Nations-affiliated University of Peace in Costa Rica, which offers graduate studies in fields ranging from conflict prevention and human security to human rights and environmental security.

Julia Marton-Lefèvre will succeed Dr. Martin Lees on 1 May, according to an announcement by Maurice Strong, the university council's chair and Special Adviser to UN Secretary-General.

"Ms. Marton-Lefèvre brings more than 30 years of experience in areas closely related to the mission of UPEACE. Her experience with the United Nations, with professional and other non-governmental organizations (NGOs), as well as her having been executive director of the International Council for Science (ICSU), allows her to provide the necessary leadership to build and consolidate the progress of the UPEACE team," Mr. Strong said.

Mr. Lees, who was rector for five years, has agreed to continue assisting the university by becoming rector emeritus and special adviser, he added.

The University for Peace was established in 1980 through a resolution of the UN General Assembly under the leadership of Rodrigo Carazo, who became the first UPEACE rector and is also rector emeritus.

The university was set up as a treaty organization and includes a special university charter. It has enrolled students from 37 countries and offers master's and doctoral degrees.