International Governmental Organizations

Post WWII World WWII altered world power International System Countries and people devastated U.S. emerged as a hegemonic power Had no psychological or physical damage; unlike other countries of Europe This catapulted the U.S. into a position to dictate a new international system International System Definition: organization & process that people use to interact across borders Modern state is the most powerful unit in the system Influence the world system There are two parts to the international system: economic & political institutions Predominant Belief: Faulty Economic and Political institutions led to WWII

Post WWII World Great Depression Crippled World economies Establishing higher tariffs to protect economies = downward spiral New gov and new doctrines espoused by countries: Fascism, Socialism, Communism Solution? – Restructure International system Two objectives: 1) Foster world wide economic prosperity 2) Weaken potentially aggressive states Three institutions created to achieve objectives International Governmental Organizations (IGO’s), World Bank, and International Monetary Fund (IMF)

I.G.O.’s International Governmental Organizations Reasons for growth Another option of governance – beyond the state Modern day invention Necessity drives their emergence Special needs and organizations for unique problems E.G. World Health Organization Deal with problems (economic & social) Powerful countries are responsible to preserve global cooperation E.G. League of Nations from WWI Reasons for growth Governments are starting to turn to I.G.O.’s International contact – the growth of internet and telecommunications Interchanges need organization & structure Increased problems & Challenges (Nuclear, genocides, environmental issues, etc.) Increased security risks Continue need for organization in health, foods, human rights, etc,. Increased Global Trade – Leveling the playing field – economically

I.G.O.’s Roles Why gov. rely on I.G.O.’s Increasing roles of IGO’s Governments able to achieve greater global objectives & goals The I.G.O.’s work & success relies on the organizations Increasing roles of IGO’s Provide arena to pursue interests A place where nations can pursue interests internationally People can work to get a place at the table (e.g. United Nations) Facilitate cooperation among nations Foster symbiotic relationships – what happens to all E.g. health issues (Asian flu – potential threat for all) Brings nations together – together they can tackle issue Oceans and seas – regime created to govern and protect the ocean/seas Stop pollution; promote regulations and norms for the oceans/seas IGO’s Organization Membership? Any member can join Must fall with in the scope of organization Meet criteria

I.G.O. Activities Establish Norms Address violence (Human Rights) Mediation (Air grievances) Diplomatic Intervention Economic Sanctions (Apply punishments) Promote Economic development Protect Environment Promote Sovereignty