UNIDO : United Nations Industrial Development Organization
The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) helps developing countries and economies in transition in their fight against marginalization.UNIDO mobilizes knowledge, skills, information and technology to promote productive employment, a competitive economy and a sound environment. Furthermore, the Organization enhances cooperation at global, regional, national and sectoral levels.
UNIDO was established in 1966 and became a specialized agency of the United Nations in 1985. As a specialized agency, UNIDO has its own constitution, its own member states, its own policymaking organs, its own executive head (Director-General Dr. Kandeh K. Yumkella) and its own regular budget. Moreover, UNIDO disposes of voluntary contributions to finance developmental activities.
UNIDO holds a special place in the United Nations system as it is the only organization promoting the creation of wealth and tackling poverty alleviation through manufacturing. The Organization focuses on three inter-related thematic priorities:
Poverty Reduction through Productive Activities
Trade Capacity-Building
Energy and Environment
To improve standards of living through industries that are both internationally competitive and environmentally sustainable, the Organization has created the largest portfolio of projects related to trade capacity building in the United Nations system. The main focus is on promoting growth in the small and medium enterprise sector – the key generator of wealth in most developing countries. UNIDO plays a leading role in, among others, the implementation of the Montreal Protocol for the elimination of ozone depleting substances (ODS) and the Stockholm Convention for the elimination of persistent organic pollutants (POPs).
