Its work programme is tailored to serve all UN member States, with a particular emphasis on the needs of least-developed and other structurally weak and vulnerable economies.
Prompted by a marked rise in cross-border investment activity, the UN in 1974 set up a permanent intergovernmental forum to deliberate on issues related to transnational corporations (TNCs), notably their developmental impact.
Analytical work thus expanded to cover strategies for attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) and harnessing such flows for growth, employment and poverty alleviation.
To holistically serve member States' interests, outputs are impact-oriented and span three interlinked operational spheres: (1) the compilation of a comprehensive body of knowledge through research, data collection and policy analysis; (2) achieving practical outcomes through capacity-building and technical assistance; and (3) contributing to systemic coherence in the area of international investment policy through consensus-building among UN member States.
The Division's body of work is highly relevant for policymakers, the private sector, practitioners and academics, and is recognized by government ministries and peer organizations as leading-edge and agenda-setting.
The World Investment Forum is a biennial, multi-stakeholder summit designed to facilitate dialogue and action on key emerging investment-related challenges.
The review scope encompasses FDI entry and establishment, treatment and protection of investment, taxation, the business environment and sectoral regulations.