last updated 8 May 2007

Within the United Nations system, there are a number of organizations that form part of the UN system. UN programs and funds work to improve the conditions of specific populations, such as the United Nations Development Fund for Women and the United Nations Children's Fund. The UN programs and funds are self-governed and have their own budgets and secretariats.

A number of independent organizations, known as specialized agencies, are linked to the UN through cooperative agreements. Specialized agencies are autonomous bodies that are created through international agreements. These specialized agencies have a wide spectrum of international responsibilities and work on a number of related issues, such as economic, social, education and health issues. Some of the specialized agencies also address issues that are relevant to ending violence against women

Finally, some intergovernmental organizations, such as the International Organization for Migration, maintain close ties with the United Nations although they are not officially a part of the UN system. Such organizations often work closely with UN programs and specialized agencies and well as non-governmental organizations.