PROVIA is a new UN initiative to coordinate research on climate vulnerability, impacts, and adaptation (VIA). It aims to (1) prioritize and guide VIA research, (2) communicate scientific findings to policymakers, and (3) build research capacity. PROVIA is organized by a Scientific Steering Committee and supported by UNEP, UNESCO, and WMO. Its initial work plan includes developing an international VIA research agenda, providing scientific information to the UNFCCC, and convening biennial conferences to improve coherence of VIA research.