International organisations are institutions created by States or other international actors to promote cooperation, carry out shared functions and address matters that require collective action.
PUBLIC LEGAL REFERENCE
International Organisations
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International organisations are usually established through founding treaties or other international legal instruments. These agreements define the organisation's purpose, powers, structure and legal responsibilities.
Many international organisations possess legal personality, allowing them to hold rights and obligations under international law. Legal personality enables organisations to perform their functions independently within the limits of their founding instruments.
The United Nations is one of the most significant international organisations. It was created in 1945 to maintain international peace and security, promote cooperation and support the development of international law.
International organisations may assist with peace and security, humanitarian cooperation, economic development, human rights protection, environmental matters and dispute resolution.
International organisations operate through powers granted by their member States. States remain central actors while organisations provide structures for cooperation and collective decision-making.
International organisations contribute to the development of international law through treaties, resolutions, institutional practice and the creation of legal standards in specialised areas.
Students should understand the legal personality, functions and importance of international organisations and their role in developing and applying international law.
Students should understand that international organisations are created through legal instruments, may possess international legal personality and support cooperation, law development and dispute resolution.