UNU Institute Logo Basics

UNU institute logos are based on the UNU logo, then extended to represent each institute individually. As with the UNU logo, the UNU institute logo functions as an important component of the organizational brand, and when used consistently, presents a unified and distinctive image to our audience.

The UNU institute logo contains three unique elements: the (1) UN symbol, the (2) UNU symbol, and the (3) UNU institute logotype. These elements, along with a thin vertical separator between the symbols, have been carefully positioned to comprise the UNU institute logo.

Two Variants

Unique to the UNU institute logo, two variants exist: the standard UNU institute logo described above, and the alternate UNU institute logo, below. The alternate logo contains a simplified logotype, which uses the institute acronym but not the institute name. This variant should be used in instances where the institute name is redundant or not required (for example, the institute brochure or institute website, where the institute name may be presented in a more immersive, prominent or suitable manner).

UNU Institute Logo Suite

The UNU institute logo suite consists of four unique versions: 1-Colour Black, 1-Colour White, 2-Colour, and 3-Colour.

The (1) 1-Colour Black and (2) 1-Colour White versions are all black and all white respectively. The (3) 2-Colour version is mostly of black, with the UNU symbol and institute acronym appearing in the institute’s representative colour. The (4) 3-Colour version is composed of black, with the UN symbol appearing in UNU Blue, and the UNU symbol and institute acronym appearing in the institute’s representative colour.

Note that both standard and alternate logo variants are available in their respective suites.

Selecting a Version and a Variant

The 1-Colour Black version is considered to be the standard, and useful in most instances where the UNU logo is applicable. The 1-Colour White version is used on dark or photographic backgrounds (such as full-colour posters or video watermarks); when deciding between the black or white option, use the version providing the the most contrast and visibility.

The 2-Colour and 3-Colour versions are useful when a note of colour is needed or desired. These versions should be used on white or very light backgrounds only; versions for dark backgrounds do not exist.

Incorrect Use

Correct and consistent use of the UNU logo is an essential part of building brand equity. UNU’s visual identity system allows for a great deal of flexibility, but care should be taken with the UNU logo – always use approved and provided artwork. Following are examples of incorrect use of the UNU logo.

When using the UNU logo, be sure not to (1) rearrange or resize any of the elements, (2) apply lighting effects or any stylistic adjustments, (3) change any color values or width/height ratio, (4) adjust or replace the logotype, (5) edit, remove or adjust the institute acronym or institute name, or (6) place the logo on visually distracting backgrounds. All examples are easily avoidable when using approved and provided artwork, and following proper placement guidelines.

Proper Placement

When using the UNU logo on communications collateral such as event posters, informational brochures or screen presentations, some simple guidelines apply.

On the (1) printed document or poster, the natural placement locations are the four corners of the document, with the top of the page most common. In situations when the content on the top of the document makes this visually unappealing (e.g., a photograph with no natural logo placement location, or a document title which makes the logo feel redundant), the base of the document is an effective alternative.

For (2) screen presentations such as Keynote or PowerPoint, the UNU logo is an effective way to start and end a presentation. In this instance, placing the UNU logo above the horizontal centre is recommended. This leaves a natural place for an introduction and/or closing message below (presenter name or website URL, for example).

Partnership Uses

When providing the UNU logo to partner organizations (for a co-organized event materials or other similar arrangement), the above placement guidelines apply. The UNU logo should appear with the same visual weight as other logos on the product. In general, all logos are unique in size and shape, and resizing artwork to have a common height or width often leads to visual imbalances and should be avoided. Ensure the UNU logo meets this guideline before providing print/publishing approval.

Similarly, when placing a partner logo onto a UNU publication or product, it is important to inquire with the partner contact about their logo usage guidelines upon receipt, and offer a digital comp before printing.

Download the UNU Logo Suite

To download a UNU institute logo suite, visit UNU Institute Logos: Download. Note that a UNU network username and password is required to download this and all other resources on this website.