A voluntary group of 56 countries, most of which were once part of the British Empire. They share values like democracy, development, and human rights.
Benefits to the UK:
Trade links: Easier and friendly trade with member countries.
Cultural exchange: Shared language, sports (like the Commonwealth Games), and education programmes.
Global influence: Strengthens the UK's diplomatic ties and soft power.
How to remember:Commonwealth = Countries with Common history and Cooperation (all C’s!)
2. NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization)
Meaning:A military alliance of 30+ countries formed to defend each other in case of armed attack (an attack on one is an attack on all).
Benefits to the UK:
National security: If the UK is attacked, all NATO members must defend it.
Shared intelligence & technology.
Influence in global military affairs.
How to remember:NATO = Never Alone To Offend – reminds you it's about collective defence and protection.
3. WTO (World Trade Organization)
Meaning:An international organisation that regulates trade between nations to ensure it flows as smoothly and freely as possible.
Benefits to the UK:
Free trade: Ensures fair rules between countries.
Dispute solving: Helps the UK challenge unfair trade barriers.
Boosts economy by making it easier to export/import.
How to remember:WTO = We Trade Openly – it's about fair trade rules and global business.
4. UN (United Nations)
Meaning:A global organisation of 190+ countries working to maintain international peace, security, and cooperation.
Benefits to the UK:
Peacekeeping: Helps prevent conflict worldwide.
Security Council seat: UK is one of 5 permanent members with veto power.
Promotes human rights and aid efforts (e.g. in war zones or disasters).
How to remember:UN = Uniting Nations – it’s all about peace, aid and rights.
5. Council of Europe (not the EU!)
Meaning:A human rights organisation with 46 member states – it oversees the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).
Benefits to the UK:
Protects UK citizens’ rights through the ECHR.
Promotes democracy and the rule of law.
UK citizens can take cases to the European Court of Human Rights.
How to remember:Council of Europe = Court of ECHR – think Rights, Law, Justice.
6. European Union (EU) (Even though UK left – still relevant)
Meaning:A political and economic union of European countries. The UK left in 2020 (Brexit), but it still trades and cooperates with EU countries.
Relevance/Impact on UK:
Before Brexit: Free trade, free movement, joint laws.
After Brexit: New trade deals, stricter border rules, new immigration system.
How to remember:EU = Europe United – trade, laws, travel (UK used to be a part of this).
8. International Criminal Court (ICC)
Meaning:An international court that prosecutes individuals for war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity.
Benefits to the UK:
Promotes justice and human rights.
Shows UK supports international law.
How to remember:ICC = International Crime Catcher – justice for global crimes.
7. G7 (Group of Seven)
Meaning:A group of 7 of the world’s richest democracies (UK, USA, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan).
Benefits to the UK:
Global influence in economics, climate, and politics.
Discuss big issues like pandemics or war (e.g. Ukraine).
How to remember:G7 = Group of Giants – rich, powerful democracies solving world problems.
9. International Monetary Fund (IMF)
Meaning:Helps countries in economic crisis by lending money and giving advice.
Benefits to the UK:
Stabilises global economy.
UK has voting power = influence in global financial decisions.
How to remember:IMF = I Make Funds – helps economies recover, offers loans.
10. World Health Organization (WHO)
Meaning:A UN agency that leads on global health – responds to diseases, pandemics, and health education.
Benefits to the UK:
Support during health crises (e.g. COVID-19).
Health data sharing and global cooperation.
How to remember:WHO = We Help Out (with health!) – health emergencies & vaccines.
What are NGOs (Non-Governmental Organisations)?
✅ Key Features:
Not controlled by governments
Funded by donations, fundraising, or international aid
📌 Examples of NGOs & What They Do:
🔹 Oxfam
Cause: Fighting global poverty
Activities: Emergency aid, clean water projects, lobbying for fair trade laws
Impact: Helps during disasters, influences UK foreign aid policy
🔹 Amnesty International
Cause: Human rights
Activities: Campaigns against torture, unfair imprisonment, free speech violations
Impact: Pressures governments (including the UK) to respect human rights
💡 How NGOs Help the UK:
Provide aid and relief that supports UK foreign policy goals
Help the UK government meet global obligations (e.g. human rights, disaster relief)
Raise awareness in the public and influence political decisions