Intergovernmental Organizations Quiz: Key Concepts Explained

Study Notes

International Intergovernmental Organizations (IGOs)

Established by a treaty to pursue common aims of member states
Have a legal personality separate from member states
Can enter into legally binding agreements with other IGOs or states

Characteristics of IGOs

Established through a constitutional instrument (treaty or agreement)
Have decision-making powers distinct from member states
Have jurisdiction, permanent structures, and means to attain common goals and objectives on an international scale

Supranational Organizations

Member states surrender power in specific areas to the higher organization
Decisions taken by the organization must be obeyed by member states
Often have courts to determine when violations have occurred
Involve a greater transfer of or limitation of state sovereignty than other kinds of international organizations

International Organizations

Generally have states as members, but other entities can also apply for membership
Make international law and are governed by it
Decision-making process is often a question of political judgement rather than law

History of International Organizations

Before 1850, only a few international organizations existed
In the early 21st century, several thousands of these organizations were active

Types of International Organizations

Can be very large or small, with specific purposes
Some have multiple worldwide or regional purposes (e.g., European Union)
Some have single purposes

Legal Personhood of International Organizations

Can sign agreements with other entities
Can own movable and immovable property
Can bring actions, suits, or other legal proceedings
Can claim certain privileges (e.g., tax immunity)

Functions of International Organizations

Fulfill the functions of cooperation and integration
Generally, the goal is cooperation rather than integration

Examples of Supranational Organizations

European Union
World Trade Organization

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

Introduced in 1945 to distinguish from intergovernmental organizations
Non-profit, private organizations operating outside of government control
Can rely on volunteers or support a paid staff
Function independently of any government

Description

Test your knowledge on international intergovernmental organizations (IGOs), which are associations of states established by a treaty to pursue common aims. Learn about the legal personality, functions, and examples of IGOs like the United Nations.

International Intergovernmental Organizations Quiz

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Questions and Answers

In supranational organizations, decisions made are _____________.

What is a supranational organization?

Which international organization is listed as an example of a supranational organization?

What distinguishes non-governmental organizations (NGOs) from intergovernmental organizations (IGOs)?

What is the main characteristic of non-governmental organizations (NGOs)?

How do member states interact in supranational organizations?

What role do member nations play in the European Union (EU)?

Which statement best describes the relationship between supranational organizations and member states?

'Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs) operate outside of government control.' This statement implies that NGOs ____________.

'Each member in the EU votes on policies which will impact each member nation.' What does this statement indicate about decision-making in the European Union?