International Organizations Eleanor Joyce City of Salem Schools

NAFTA North American Free Trade Agreement NAFTA is an economic alliance between the United States, Canada and Mexico. Free trade exists between these countries. This means that no taxes are paid on products traded across the borders of these countries.

NATO North Atlantic Treaty Organization Organized after World War II to fight the spread of communism in Europe. Today it is a peace- keeping force in Europe. This map does not show the United States and Canada who are also members of NATO.

OPEC Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries OPEC is made up of eleven developing countries that depend on oil as the main source of income. OPEC countries provide over 40% of the world’s oil. OPEC countries determine the amount of oil exported from member nations and the price per barrel. This determines the price per gallon of gasoline in the country.

United Nations World peace-keeping organization that was organized after World War II in order to prevent another world war.

European Union A political, economic and social alliance between the member nations. Member nations have a common currency the EURO Individuals can move freely across borders between countries without showing passports. Favorable trade agreement between countries. Member countries must respect human rights and protect the environment. Largest economic alliance in the world.

Red Cross and Red Crescent Red Cross and Red Crescent societies are active in 181 nations. With almost 100 million volunteers, the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement brings assistance and relief to some 233 million beneficiaries each year. Assistance is provided in time of war, famine, drought and natural disasters. The Red Cross is the Christian branch of the organization and the Red Crescent is the Islamic branch.

Organization of American States Promotes peace, justice and solidarity on North America, Central America and South America. Promotes democracy among the member nations. Promotes economic stability. Is currently trying to remove land mines in central America.

ASEAN Association of Southeast Asian Nations The purpose of ASEAN is to accelerate and encourage the economic growth, social progress and cultural development of the countries in the region. Asean also promotes peace within the region.

League of Arab States Arab League, informal name of the League of Arab States, a voluntary association of independent countries whose peoples are mainly Arabic speaking. Its stated purposes are to strengthen ties among the member states, coordinate their policies, and promote their common interests.

Commonwealth of States The object of the Commonwealth of Nations is to advance democracy, human rights, and to promote sustainable economic growth and social development within its member states and other countries. Member nations were at one time part of the United Kingdom. They share the same language and legal system. They also share a military alliance.

African Union Includes most countries in Africa the goals are For the people of Africa, key priorities are The fight against poverty and hunger The fight against impunity and for the rule of law Debt cancellation The restitution of the money stashed abroad by corrupt leaders The fight against corruption The protection of the environment The fight against HIV/AIDS