SPECIALIZED AGENCIES OF THE UNITED NATIONS

In addition to the five main institutions, numerous independent Specialized Agencies have been created and serve in a cooperative relationship with the Economic and Social Council. Some examples of these specialized agencies, along with their date of establishment and their principal function:

• Food & Agriculture Organization (FAO), 1945 - works to raise levels of nutrition and standards of living, to improve agricultural productivity, and to better the condition of rural populations.
• International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), 1947 - sets international standards and regulations necessary for the safety, security, efficiency and regularity of air transport.
• International Labour Organization (ILO), 1919 - seeks the promotion of social justice and internationally recognized human and labor rights.
• International Maritime Organization (IMO), 1958 - responsible for improving maritime safety and preventing pollution from ships.
• International Monetary Fund (IMF), 1945 - the central institution of the international monetary system, the IMF aims to prevent crises by encouraging countries to adopt sound economic policies. It is also a fund that can be tapped by members needing temporary financing to address balance of payments problems.
• United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), 1946 - promotes collaboration among nations through education, science, culture and communication.
• World Health Organization (WHO), 1948 - Develops international guidelines for health management, analyzes the spread of disease, and coordinates international health programs.
• World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), 1970 - Promotes the use and protection of creative works.

A complete list of UN Specialized Agencies can be found on the UN Web site, at http://www.unsystem.org/.

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