The institute was founded in 1968 to assist the international community in formulating and implementing improved policies in the field of crime prevention and criminal justice.

Its work currently focuses on Goal 16 of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, that is centred on promoting peaceful, just and inclusive societies, free from crime and violence.

[2] The United Nations and the Italian Government signed an agreement in 1968 for the establishment of UNSDRI's Headquarters in Rome and the institute was formally inaugurated the following year by the UN Secretary-General.

UNICRI works in specialized niches and selected areas within the fields of crime prevention, justice, security governance and the risks and benefits of technological advances.

UNICRI implements its programmes with the generous support of a number of Member States and other donors, including international and regional organizations charities and foundations.

The institute maintains close working relations with UN bodies and agencies, particularly with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).