This lesson explains why states create regional intergovernmental organizations (IGOs), the kinds of work they undertake, and how cooperation can deepen over time.
Regional IGOs bring neighboring or geographically connected states together to address issues that cross borders. Their broad aim is to improve quality of life in a region through economic development, trade, security, and cooperation. They can also provide a forum for dialogue, helping governments resolve disagreements before they escalate.
All flashcards
Regional IGO
An intergovernmental organization whose member states cooperate on shared regional interests or problems.
Functionalism
The idea that practical cooperation can build trust and encourage cooperation in broader policy areas.
NATO Article 5
The commitment that an armed attack against one or more NATO members is treated as an attack against them all.
Euroskepticism
Criticism of, or opposition to, European integration and the European Union.
Global governance
Coordination of rules, institutions, and cooperative action to address cross-border problems, without requiring a world government.
Quiz questions
What does NATO Article 5 establish?Answer: An armed attack on one or more members is treated as an attack on them all.
Which activities are part of the OSCE’s security work?Answer: Arms control, preventive diplomacy, conflict monitoring, and peace-building.
What is the main role of the European Council?Answer: It sets broad priorities for the European Union.
How do realists generally interpret the role of international organizations?Answer: They are tools states use to pursue interests, with powerful states often exerting greater influence.
What does NATO’s 2 percent defense-spending guideline represent?Answer: A spending benchmark for members, whose actual contributions vary.
Based on Introduction to Political Science by Mark Carl Rom, Masaki Hidaka, Rachel Bzostek Walker (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.