Key International Organizations: Roles and Functions

United Nations (UN)

The UN facilitates international cooperation in law, security, development, human rights, and peace.

UNESCO

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization: Focuses on education, science, and culture.

FAO

Food and Agriculture Organization: Leads efforts to combat hunger and improve nutrition.

ILO

International Labour Organization: Addresses labor issues and work relations.

UNICEF

United Nations International Children's Fund: Provides aid to children globally.

WHO

World Health Organization: Coordinates international public health initiatives.

IAEA

International Atomic Energy Agency: Promotes peaceful use of nuclear energy.

NATO

North Atlantic Treaty Organization: A military alliance for collective defense.

OPEC

Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries: A cartel of oil-producing nations.

Trade Agreements

NAFTA

North American Free Trade Agreement: A trade bloc between the US, Canada, and Mexico.

Mercosur

A South American trade agreement promoting free trade and movement of goods.

ASEAN

Association of Southeast Asian Nations: A geo-political and economic organization in Southeast Asia.

EU

European Union: An economic and political union in Europe.

Non-Governmental Organizations

Greenpeace

An environmental organization advocating for global environmental protection.

Amnesty International

Focuses on human rights research and action.

Red Cross and Red Crescent

Provides humanitarian aid and promotes respect for human life globally.