What is International Organisation Class 12 Political Science: Definition & Examples
By ConceptScroll Team · Published on 18 June 2026 · 4 min read
In Class 12 Political Science, understanding what is international organisation class 12 political science is essential. An international organisation is a group formed by countries to work together on common goals, such as peace, trade, or development.
Definition of International Organisation in Class 12 Political Science
An international organisation is a formal entity created by multiple countries through agreements or treaties to achieve common objectives. These organisations operate beyond national boundaries and help member states cooperate on issues like security, trade, human rights, and environmental protection.
Key features include:
- Membership consists of sovereign states.
- Established by a treaty or charter.
- Permanent structure with organs like assemblies or secretariats.
- Functions to solve global problems collectively.
In Class 12 NCERT Political Science, this definition helps students grasp how countries collaborate in the international system.
Types of International Organisations Explained
International organisations can be broadly classified into two types:
1. Intergovernmental Organisations (IGOs):
- Composed of member states.
- Examples: United Nations (UN), World Trade Organization (WTO), International Monetary Fund (IMF).
- Focus on political, economic, and security cooperation.
2. Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs):
- Composed of individuals or groups, not states.
- Examples: Amnesty International, Red Cross.
- Work on humanitarian, environmental, or social issues.
| Type | Members | Purpose | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intergovernmental | Countries | Political, economic cooperation | United Nations (UN) |
| Non-Governmental | Individuals/groups | Social, humanitarian causes | Red Cross |
Understanding these types helps Class 12 students identify roles played by different organisations.
Want to test yourself on International Organisations? Try our free quiz →
Roles and Functions of International Organisations
International organisations perform several important roles:
- Maintaining peace and security: UN peacekeeping missions prevent conflicts.
- Promoting economic development: IMF and World Bank provide financial aid.
- Facilitating trade: WTO sets rules for international trade.
- Protecting human rights: Organisations monitor rights violations.
- Addressing global issues: Climate change, pandemics, and refugees.
For example, the UN Security Council has the authority to impose sanctions or authorise military action to maintain peace.
These functions illustrate how international organisations support global stability and cooperation, a key topic in Class 12 Political Science.
Examples of Major International Organisations in NCERT Class 12
The NCERT Class 12 Political Science textbook highlights several key international organisations:
- United Nations (UN): Founded in 1945 to promote peace and cooperation.
- World Trade Organization (WTO): Regulates international trade rules.
- International Monetary Fund (IMF): Provides financial support to countries.
- World Bank: Offers loans for development projects.
- North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO): Military alliance for collective security.
Each organisation has a specific mandate and structure. For instance, the UN has six main organs including the General Assembly and Security Council.
Understanding these examples helps students connect theory with real-world institutions.
How International Organisations Impact Global Politics
International organisations influence global politics by:
- Encouraging dialogue: They provide platforms for negotiation.
- Reducing conflicts: Peacekeeping and mediation efforts.
- Setting international norms: Human rights, trade laws.
- Supporting development: Aid and technical assistance.
For example, the UN’s role in peacekeeping has helped resolve conflicts in various regions. Similarly, the WTO settles trade disputes to avoid economic wars.
Class 12 students should note how these organisations shape international relations and global governance.
How to Prepare for the International Organisations Chapter in Class 12 Political Science
To excel in this chapter:
- Understand key definitions: Focus on what is international organisation class 12 political science.
- Memorise examples and functions: Know major organisations and their roles.
- Use diagrams: Visual aids like organisational charts help retention.
- Practice NCERT exercises: Attempt all questions for better clarity.
- Review solved examples: Apply concepts to real-world scenarios.
Example question:
Q: Name two functions of the United Nations.
A: Maintaining international peace and promoting human rights.
Consistent revision using these tips will strengthen your grasp of the chapter.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main purpose of international organisations?
They help countries cooperate on global issues like peace, trade, and development.
Name two types of international organisations.
Intergovernmental Organisations (IGOs) and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs).
Which international organisation promotes world peace?
The United Nations (UN) primarily works to maintain international peace and security.
Are international organisations only made up of countries?
No, NGOs are made up of individuals or groups, not countries.
Why is the study of international organisations important in Class 12 Political Science?
It helps students understand global cooperation and international relations.
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