Adaptation Research Chula’s Social Research Institute to Host ARA Secretariat, Driving Global Climate Adaptation Research 

Chulalongkorn University’s Social Research Institute (CUSRI), together with the Stockholm Environment Institute–Asia (SEI-Asia), will be hosting the Secretariat of the Adaptation Research Alliance (ARA) — the first time for Thailand. This appointment reflects the international community’s trust in Chulalongkorn University as a hub for academic excellence, innovation, and collaboration on the global stage. 

The ARA is a worldwide network of researchers, funders, policymakers, development organizations, and civil society groups from over 40 countries. Its mission is to accelerate demand-driven, action-oriented research that strengthens the resilience of vulnerable communities and supports effective, sustainable climate adaptation solutions. 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Unruan Leknoi, Director of CUSRI, explained that as ARA Secretariat, the institute will coordinate, manage, and guide research efforts to help communities adapt to climate change. 

“Hosting the ARA Secretariat allows CUSRI to serve as a bridge between Thai and international expertise,” she said. “We hope to collaborate widely in developing adaptation strategies that respond to local needs, especially in regions most vulnerable to climate change.” 

This role also aligns with Chulalongkorn University’s “Chula Togetherness” strategy under the leadership of President, Prof. Dr. Wilert Puriwat, which promotes four dimensions of growth: 

• International Growth – building cross-border networks 
• Internal Growth – strengthening innovation ecosystems 
• Impactful Growth – advancing international research funding 
• Integrated Growth – establishing the Chulalongkorn–ARA Global Hub, a world-class center for learning and innovation where young researchers and practitioners can exchange knowledge and co-create long-term, systemic solutions 

As co-host of the Secretariat, CUSRI will work to expand global networks, connect researchers and funders, and develop infrastructure for climate data, learning, and innovation. These efforts will create opportunities for new generations of researchers and experts worldwide to share knowledge and turn research into real-world community impact. 

“Over the next three years, CUSRI will focus on mobilizing more resources for climate adaptation research, strengthening data systems, and ensuring that research findings bring meaningful benefits to society and the environment,” Dr. Unruan added. “Our hope is to contribute to ARA’s mission of building a more resilient and sustainable world.” 

CUSRI’s long-standing partnership with SEI-Asia ensures a seamless collaboration. While SEI-Asia focuses on regional policy, CUSRI will work more directly with community-based adaptation. Together with international partners, they aim to improve the lives of vulnerable populations most affected by climate change. 

Looking ahead, CUSRI is also preparing to host the International Conference on Global Leadership in Social Business Innovation (GLSBI 2025) on August 28–29, 2025, at the Asia Hotel, Bangkok. The conference will be organized in partnership with the Yunus Centre, led by Nobel Peace Prize Laureate H.E. Prof. Muhammad Yunus, along with the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada, SEI, and Yunus Thailand. 

GLSBI 2025 will serve as a global platform for sharing ideas, connecting academia, business, and policy, and advancing social business innovation. By bringing together researchers from both developed and developing countries, the conference will strengthen international collaboration and help turn knowledge into tangible solutions that improve lives. 

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