Question

Mention functions of any two special agencies of U.N.

Hint:

When asked for functions, try to choose well-known agencies like WHO, UNICEF, UNESCO, or the IMF. Their names often give a clear indication of their primary function (e.g., Health in WHO, Children in UNICEF).

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The United Nations system consists of the main UN organs and numerous specialized agencies that have specific mandates in fields like health, education, finance, and labor.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation (Two Agencies and their Functions):
The functions of two special agencies of the U.N. are as follows:
1. World Health Organization (WHO):
The primary function of the WHO is to act as the directing and coordinating authority on international health work. Its key functions include:

Setting global norms and standards for health.
Monitoring global health trends and disease outbreaks.
Declaring global health emergencies (like pandemics).
Providing technical assistance to countries to strengthen their health systems and coordinating efforts to combat diseases like polio, malaria, and HIV/AIDS.
2. International Monetary Fund (IMF):
The IMF is a financial agency that works to ensure the stability of the international monetary system. Its main functions are:

Surveillance: It monitors the economic and financial policies of its member countries.
Financial Assistance: It provides short-term loans to member countries facing balance of payments problems.
Technical Assistance: It offers technical assistance and training to help countries improve their economic management.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Two UN special agencies are the WHO, which coordinates international public health and responds to health emergencies, and the IMF, which oversees the global financial system and provides loans to countries in economic difficulty.