United Nations (UN)

An international organisation founded in 1945 through which member states cooperate on peace, security, development, human rights and international law.

Its principal organs include the General Assembly, Security Council, Economic and Social Council, International Court of Justice, Secretariat and Trusteeship Council. A wider UN system includes specialised agencies such as the IMO, ITU and WMO.

In maritime affairs, UN bodies develop international frameworks for shipping safety, pollution prevention, telecommunications, ocean law, weather and sustainable use. The UN itself is not a maritime regulator or enforcement service.