Humanitarian Guidelines and Systems → Key UN and international organisations
Key UN and international organisations
The United Nations (UN) is a global, inter-governmental organisation – with representation from almost every nation in the world. One of its key roles is to achieve international co-operation in solving international economic, social, cultural, or humanitarian problems. In disaster situations which are beyond the capacity of national authorities, the UN and its agencies may be called upon to:
- provide and coordinate humanitarian assistance,
- protect and support those affected by disaster,
- protect and assist refugees.
Key UN and international organisations
FAO – Food and Agriculture Organisation of the UN
Provides early warning of impending food crises, and assesses global food supply problems.
IOM – International Organisation for Migration
An intergovernmental agency which helps transfer refugees, IDPs and others in need of internal or international migration services.
OCHA – United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs
Mobilises and coordinates international humanitarian response in collaboration with the Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC)
OHCHR–Office of United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights
Provides assistance and advice to governments and other actors on human rights issues, sets standards and monitors rights violations.
UNDP - United Nations Development Programme
Assists disaster-prone countries in contingency planning and with disaster mitigation, prevention and preparedness measures.
UNHCR - United Nations High Commission for Refugees
Provides international protection and assistance for refugees, stateless persons, and internally displaced persons (IDPs), particularly in conflict-related emergencies.
UNICEF - United Nations Children’s Fund
Works to uphold children’s right, survival, development and protection by intervening in health, education, water, sanitation, hygiene, and protection
WFP - World Food Programme
Principle supplier of relief food aid.
WHO - World Health Organisation
Provides global public health leadership by setting standards, monitoring health trends, and providing direction on emergency health issues.
WMO – World Meteorological Organisation
Undertakes drought monitoring and cyclone forecasts