A United Nations agency refers to an organization, department, or body that operates under the auspices of the United Nations (UN), a global intergovernmental organization established to promote international cooperation and address global issues. These agencies are established with specific mandates to further the goals and objectives of the UN in various fields of work such as development, peacekeeping, humanitarian aid, human rights, education, health, and more.
United Nations agencies are comprised of member states' representatives who collaborate to ensure cooperation, peaceful resolutions, and collective actions on global matters. These agencies serve as specialized entities within the UN system, tasked with implementing and managing programs, initiatives, projects, and policies, guided by the principles and values of the UN Charter.
They often function autonomously and possess their own organizational structures, budgets, and personnel, while maintaining close coordination and reporting to the United Nations Secretariat and, ultimately, the General Assembly and Security Council.
The organizations affiliated with the UN family, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and many others, are prime examples of United Nations agencies. They play a crucial role in addressing global challenges, promoting sustainable development, coordinating international efforts, and providing support and guidance to member states to achieve common objectives in a cooperative and inclusive manner.
