Global Concepts & Definitions: International Affairs, Technology, Environment

Key Global Concepts & Definitions

United Nations (UN)

The United Nations (UN) is a global association of governments established to facilitate cooperation in matters of international peace and security, human rights, and social development.

North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is an international organization focused on collective defense and security cooperation. Its aim is to increase stability and peace in Europe through collaboration among member countries and partners.

Blue Helmets

The Blue Helmets are a multinational peacekeeping force responsible for creating and maintaining peace in conflict areas under the supervision of the UN Security Council.

Taliban

The Taliban are members of an Afghan Islamic fundamentalist group, primarily composed of former students of Koranic schools.

Jihad

Jihad is an Islamic term often interpreted as a holy war or a spiritual struggle against those considered infidels by some Muslims.

Fundamentalism

Fundamentalism refers to extreme conservatism. It is a movement or attitude that opposes any deviation from doctrines and practices considered essential within a religious, political, or educational system.

Al-Qaeda

Al-Qaeda is an Islamic fundamentalist terrorist organization, formerly led by Osama bin Laden.

Fanaticism

Fanaticism is radicalism, characterized by an unwillingness to accept other views. A fanatical person may be willing to kill or die for an idea.

Globalization

Globalization is the accelerated interdependence of national economies, driven by technological change and the reduction of barriers to the mobility of goods, capital, and people.

Multinational Corporation

A Multinational Corporation is an economic entity that conducts its activities in multiple countries.

Relocation (Offshoring)

Relocation, often referred to as Offshoring, is the process of moving a company's operations to another country where labor is cheaper and tax incentives may be available.

Urbanization

Urbanization is the phenomenon of accelerating growth in cities, both in population and geographical area.

Financial Flows

Financial Flows refer to the aggregate of economic movements arising from global financial exchanges.

Information Technology (IT)

Information Technology (IT) is the field where electronics have demonstrated significant efficiency. It represents a scientific and technological innovation that has profoundly impacted industrialized societies.

Internet

The Internet is a decentralized, global 'network of networks' that is indefinitely scalable.

Fiber Optic

Fiber Optic is a transmission medium commonly used in data networks.

Information Highways

Information Highways are the communication routes that connect and transform the world into a global village.

Satellite (Artificial)

An Artificial Satellite is a celestial object created on Earth, orbiting another celestial body.

GMO (Genetically Modified Organism)

A GMO (Genetically Modified Organism) refers to organisms, often foods, whose genetic material has been altered to enhance their qualities.

NGO (Non-Governmental Organization)

An NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) is a private institution with social and humanitarian objectives, operating independently of government.

Sustainable Growth

Sustainable Growth refers to economic development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Climate Change

Climate Change is any significant global climate alteration on Earth, whether caused by natural processes or human activities.