international governmental organization

type of organization

Also known as: IGO

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 15, 2026

Quick Summary

An international governmental organization (IGO) is an institution with at least three member states, engaging in activities across multiple countries and bound by a formal agreement. These organizations are established through intergovernmental agreements, with states as their members.1

IGOs vary in size, from just three members to over 185, like the United Nations (UN). Their geographic scope can range from regional, such as the Organization of American States, to global, like the International Monetary Fund. Some IGOs focus on a single purpose, while others have multiple objectives.1

Historically, early forms of international organizations emerged in the 19th century, with significant growth in the 20th century, particularly after World War II, leading to the establishment of the UN as a central network. IGOs perform diverse functions, including information collection, service delivery, and providing forums for negotiation and dispute resolution. They serve as instruments for states to cooperate on common goals and as tools of foreign policy.1

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

4 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

international organization
…between the more than 250 international governmental organizations (IGOs), which have been established by intergovernmental agreements and whose members are states, and the approximately 6,000 nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), whose members are associations or individuals.
Read More
…between the more than 250 international governmental organizations (IGOs), which have been established by intergovernmental agreements and whose members are states, and the approximately 6,000 nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), whose members are associations or individuals.
Read More

nongovernmental organization
…and programs of governments and IGOs by observing or participating in the meetings at which norms, principles, treaties, and conventions are negotiated, disputes settled, and resources allocated. Although the UN’s members are states, Article 71 of the UN Charter authorizes the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) to grant consultative status…
Read More
…and programs of governments and IGOs by observing or participating in the meetings at which norms, principles, treaties, and conventions are negotiated, disputes settled, and resources allocated. Although the UN’s members are states, Article 71 of the UN Charter authorizes the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) to grant consultative status…
Read More