The United Nations (UN) embodies an assemblage of 15 specialised agencies that cultivate international cooperation in several areas like health, food security, labour standards, intellectual property rights, telecommunication, and more. These bodies, made up of member states, strive to ensure peace, prosperity, and sustainable development globally. Let’s delve into gaining a comprehensive understanding of these UN Specialised Agencies, pouring focus into each in four parts.
Part 1: FAO, UNIDO, and ICAO
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), founded in 1945, is aimed at defeating hunger. The agency contributes to the growth of agriculture, forestry, and fisheries to ensure food security for everyone.
Next is the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), formulated in 1966, which supports developing countries and economies in transition to achieve industrialisation. UNIDO works with governments and businesses to create industry and trade capacities, which are competitive, environmentally sustainable, and inclusive.
Lastly, we have the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Founded in 1944, the ICAO fosters the growth of safe and orderly international civil aviation. The agency creates standards and regulations necessary for aviation safety, security, efficiency, and regularity.
Part 2: UNWTO, IFAD, and UPU
The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) propagates responsible, sustainable, and universally accessible tourism. It drives economic growth, inclusive development and promotes understanding among nations through tourism.
Followed by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), formed in 1977. IFAD is dedicated to combating rural poverty in developing countries. It works by empowering rural poor people to achieve higher incomes and improve their food security.
The Universal Postal Union (UPU), the second oldest international organisation, founded in 1874, facilitates and coordinates international postal services. It sets rules for international mail exchanges and ensures a free flow of international mail around the world.
Part 3: ILO, WHO, and ITU
The International Labour Organisation (ILO), founded in 1919, aims to promote rights at work, encourage decent employment opportunities and enhance social protection. The tripartite agency brings together governments, employers, and workers of its member states to set labour standards.
The World Health Organization (WHO), established in 1948, directs and coordinates public health within the UN system. The agency provides leadership on global health matters, shapes the health research agenda, and offers technical support to countries in need.
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU), established in 1865, is responsible for issues related to information and communication technologies. It allocates global radio spectrum, develops technical standards that ensure networks and technologies interconnect seamlessly, and works to improve access to ICTs worldwide.
Part 4: WIPO, WMO, and IMO
The World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) is dedicated to promoting creative intellectual activity and for facilitating the transfer of technology related to intellectual property to developing countries in order to accelerate economic, social and cultural development.
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) is tasked with promoting global cooperation in providing meteorological, hydrological, and climate-related observations. It assists in protecting life and property against natural disasters and ensuring sustainable development.
Lastly, the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) is responsible for maintaining and improving the safety of international shipping and preventing marine pollution from ships.
