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Its the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System, used for normal communications and in Distress Ugency and Safety situations.........

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Q: What is GMDSS?
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What electronic device made the telegraph possible?

The telephone, texting, internet, all long-distance, wireless communication, GMDSS, and countless others.


What is the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System?

The Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (or GMDSS) is an agreement on safety procedures, communication protocols, and equipment.


What is Inmarsat F?

INMARSAT F stands for International maritime satellite F. It is a satellite communication system used on ship. F77 or Fleet 77is an example and is a part of GMDSS. (Global maritime distress and safety system.Both data and voice transmission is possible.


How do you prevent false distress alert?

Companies, masters and seafarers should, as appropriate: # Ensure that all GMDSS certificated personnel responsible for sending a distress alert have been instructed about , and are competent to operate, the particular radio equipment on the ships; # Ensure that the person or persons responsible for communications curing distress incidents give the necessary instructions and information to all crew members on how to use GMDSS equipment to send a distress alert; # Ensure that as part of each "abandon ship" drill, instruction is given on how emergency equipment should be used to provide GMDSS functions; # Ensure that GMDSS equipment testing is only undertaken under the supervision of the person responsible for communication during distress incidents; # Ensure that GMDSS equipment testing or drills are never allowed to cause false distress alerts; # Ensure that encoded identity of satellite, EPIRBs which are used by SAR personnel responding to emergencies, are properly registered in a database accessible 24 hrs a day or automatically provided to SAR authorities (Master should confirm that their EPIRBs have been registered with such a database to help SAR service identify the ship in the event of distress and rapidly obtain other information which will enable them to respond appropriately); # Ensure that EPIRB, Inmarsat and DSC registration data is immediately updated if there is any change in information relating to the ship such as owner name of flag, and that the necessary action is taken to reprogramme the ship's new data in the GMDSS equipment concerned; # Ensure that, for new ships, positions for installing EPIRBs are considered at the earliest stage of ship design and construction. # Ensure that satellite EPIRBs are carefully installed installed in accordance with manufacturers instructions and using qualified personnel (sometimes satellite EPIRBs are damaged or broken due to improper handling or installation. They must be installed in a location that will enable them to float free and automatically activate if the ship sinks. Care must be taken to ensure that they are not tampered with or accidentally activated. If the coding has to be changed or the batteries serviced, manufacturers requirements must be strictly followed. There have been cases where EPIRB lanyards were attached to the ship so that the EPIRB could not float free; lanyards are only to be used by survivors for securing the EPIRB to a survival craft or person in water); # Ensure that EPIRBs are not activated if assistance is already immediately available (EPIRBs are intended to call for assistance if the unable to obtain help by other means and to provide position information and homing signals for SAR units). # Ensure that, if a distress alert has been accidentally transmitted, the ship makes every reasonable attempt to communicated with the RCC by any means to cancel the false distress alert using the procedures given in the appendix: # Ensure that, if possible, after emergency use, the EPIRB is retrieved and deactivated and # Ensure that when an EPIRB is damaged and needs to be disposed of, if a ship is sold for scrap or if for any other reason a satellite EPIRB will no longer be used, the satellite EPIRBs is made inoperable, either by removing its battery and, if possible, returning it to the manufacturer, or by demolishing it. Note: If the EPIRB is returned to the manufacturer, it should be wrapped in tin foil to prevent transmission of signals during shipment.


How do you prevent distress alert?

Companies, masters and seafarers should, as appropriate: # Ensure that all GMDSS certificated personnel responsible for sending a distress alert have been instructed about , and are competent to operate, the particular radio equipment on the ships; # Ensure that the person or persons responsible for communications curing distress incidents give the necessary instructions and information to all crew members on how to use GMDSS equipment to send a distress alert; # Ensure that as part of each "abandon ship" drill, instruction is given on how emergency equipment should be used to provide GMDSS functions; # Ensure that GMDSS equipment testing is only undertaken under the supervision of the person responsible for communication during distress incidents; # Ensure that GMDSS equipment testing or drills are never allowed to cause false distress alerts; # Ensure that encoded identity of satellite, EPIRBs which are used by SAR personnel responding to emergencies, are properly registered in a database accessible 24 hrs a day or automatically provided to SAR authorities (Master should confirm that their EPIRBs have been registered with such a database to help SAR service identify the ship in the event of distress and rapidly obtain other information which will enable them to respond appropriately); # Ensure that EPIRB, Inmarsat and DSC registration data is immediately updated if there is any change in information relating to the ship such as owner name of flag, and that the necessary action is taken to reprogramme the ship's new data in the GMDSS equipment concerned; # Ensure that, for new ships, positions for installing EPIRBs are considered at the earliest stage of ship design and construction. # Ensure that satellite EPIRBs are carefully installed installed in accordance with manufacturers instructions and using qualified personnel (sometimes satellite EPIRBs are damaged or broken due to improper handling or installation. They must be installed in a location that will enable them to float free and automatically activate if the ship sinks. Care must be taken to ensure that they are not tampered with or accidentally activated. If the coding has to be changed or the batteries serviced, manufacturers requirements must be strictly followed. There have been cases where EPIRB lanyards were attached to the ship so that the EPIRB could not float free; lanyards are only to be used by survivors for securing the EPIRB to a survival craft or person in water); # Ensure that EPIRBs are not activated if assistance is already immediately available (EPIRBs are intended to call for assistance if the unable to obtain help by other means and to provide position information and homing signals for SAR units). # Ensure that, if a distress alert has been accidentally transmitted, the ship makes every reasonable attempt to communicated with the RCC by any means to cancel the false distress alert using the procedures given in the appendix: # Ensure that, if possible, after emergency use, the EPIRB is retrieved and deactivated and # Ensure that when an EPIRB is damaged and needs to be disposed of, if a ship is sold for scrap or if for any other reason a satellite EPIRB will no longer be used, the satellite EPIRBs is made inoperable, either by removing its battery and, if possible, returning it to the manufacturer, or by demolishing it. Note: If the EPIRB is returned to the manufacturer, it should be wrapped in tin foil to prevent transmission of signals during shipment.


What are the 9 communication function support the GMDSS?

The nine communication functions supported by the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) are distress alerting, maritime safety information broadcasts, general communications, search and rescue coordination, on-scene coordination, locating services, data exchange, fleet coordination, and bridge-to-bridge communications.


What might have been an important consequence of the loss if the titanic?

The most important outcome that came out of the Titanic Disaster was the Convention for the Safety of Lives At Sea (SOLAS). This convention brought changes that would take place on all ships, for example all ships would have the correct number of lifeboats for its registered tonnage and passenger capacity. All ships would have to have mandatory lifeboat and fire drills within 24 hours of leaving port, all ships must have full complement of life-saving apparatus for passengers and crew, 24 hours wireless radio or 24 hour communications, for cruise ships of today, they are equipped with the Global Maritime Distress Safety System (GMDSS) it is a type of GPS system that can locate a ship's position by using an emergency beacon that is picked up by a satellite usually within 1-2 minutes depending on the satellites location. This is a short list of things listed, there are many more. The International Ice Patrol and the Revenue Cutter Service that became today's US Coast Guard. That still goes out every year and patrols the North Atlantic looking for ice and icebergs that could be dangers to ships in shipping lanes. And all of this has occurred because of one ship---Titanic---so you ask what might have been an important consequence of the Titanic Disaster, this is it. There is no other, 1,523 people died but they can be remembered by giving a great contribution to maritime safety! That is how i remember all of them. So the next time you go on a cruise and whine and complain about the lifeboat and fire drills, just stand there and think of the passengers and crew of Titanic who gave their lives so you can be safe.It only takes about a half hour to 45 minutes, it doesn't cramp your time on your cruise that much, if it does, drive to where your are going or take a rowboat.


Names of international organizations in south African countries?

this is from my friendhe is a fellow nerdACP-African, Caribbean, and Pacific:The ACP Group´s main objectives are sustainable development of its Member-States and their gradual integration into the global economy, which entails making poverty reduction a matter of priority and establishing a new, fairer, and more equitable world order, coordination of the activities of the ACP Group in the framework of the implementation of ACP-EC Partnership Agreements, consolidation of unity and solidarity among ACP States, as well as understanding among their peoples, and establishment and consolidation of peace and stability in a free and democratic society.AfDB-African Development Bank: The African Development Bank (AfDB) Group's mission is to help reduce poverty, improve living conditions for Africans and mobilize resources for the continent's economic and social development. With this objective in mind, the institution aims at assisting African countries - individually and collectively - in their efforts to achieve sustainable economic development and social progress. Combating poverty is at the heart of the continent's efforts to attain sustainable economic growth. To this end, the Bank seeks to stimulate and mobilize internal and external resources to promote investments as well as provide its regional member countries with technical and financial assistance.AU-African Union: The African Union (abbreviated AU in English, and UA in its other official languages) is an intergovernmental organization consisting of 53 African states. The only African state not in the AU is Morocco. Among the objectives of the AU's leading institutions are: to accelerate the political and socio-economic integration of the continent; to promote and defend African common positions on issues of interest to the continent and its peoples; to achieve peace and security in Africa; and to promote democratic institutions, good governance and human rights.BIS-Bank for International Settlements: The Bank for International Settlements (BIS) is an international organization which fosters international monetary and financial cooperation and serves as a bank for central banks. The BIS fulfils this mandate by acting as: a forum to promote discussion and policy analysis among central banks and within the international financial community a centre for economic and monetary research a prime counterparty for central banks in their financial transactions agent or trustee in connection with international financial operations The head office is in Basel, Switzerland and there are two representative offices: in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China and in Mexico City. Established on 17 May 1930, the BIS is the world's oldest international financial organization.C-Cell (South Africa's cellular provider): Cell C is South Africa's third cellular provider, after Vodacom and MTN, and the first cellular provider operating a dual band GSM 900/1800 Mhz network, with over 3 million subscribers as of 2006. Cell C has to date achieved over 12.5% market share since its launch on 17 November 2001. With 300 telecommunications operators nationwide, Cell C has to date rolled out in excess of 2000 base stations and carries over 80% of its traffic on its own network. Cell C is 100% owned by 3C Telecommunications (which in turn is 60% owned by Oger Telecom South Africa, a division of Saudi Oger), 25% by CellSAf, unencumbered (CellSAf represents over 30 black empowerment companies and trusts) and 15% by Lanum Securities SA.FATF-Financial Action Task Force: The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is an inter-governmental body whose purpose is the development and promotion of policies, both at national and international levels, to combat money laundering and terrorist financing. The Task Force is therefore a "policy-making body" which works to generate the necessary political will to bring about national legislative and regulatory reforms in these areas. The FATF monitors members' progress in implementing necessary measures, reviews money laundering and terrorist financing techniques and counter-measures, and promotes the adoption and implementation of appropriate measures globally. In performing these activities, the FATF collaborates with other international bodies involved in combating money laundering and the financing of terrorism. The FATF does not have a tightly defined constitution or an unlimited life span. The Task Force reviews its mission every five years. The FATF has been in existence since 1989. In 2004, Ministry representatives from the 35 FATF members agreed to extend the mandate of the Task Force until 2012. This 8-year mandate demonstrates that members of the FATF remain united in their commitment to combat terrorism and international crime, and is a sign of their confidence in the FATF as an important instrument in that fight.IAEA- International Atomic Energy Agency: The IAEA is the world´s center of cooperation in the nuclear field. It was set up as the world´s "Atoms for Peace" organization in 1957 within the United Nations family. The Agency works with its Member States and multiple partners worldwide to promote safe, secure and peaceful nuclear technologies. As an independent international organization related to the United Nations system, the IAEA´s relationship with the UN is regulated by special agreement. In terms of its Statute, the IAEA reports annually to the UN General Assembly and, when appropriate, to the Security Council regarding non-compliance by States with their safeguards obligations as well as on matters relating to international peace and security. The IAEA´s mission is guided by the interests and needs of Member States, strategic plans and the vision embodied in the IAEA Statute. Three main pillars - or areas of work - underpin the IAEA´s mission: Safety and Security; Science and Technology; and Safeguards and Verification.ICC-International Code Council: The International Code Council (ICC) is a membership association dedicated to building safety and fire prevention. ICC develops the codes and standards used to construct residential and commercial buildings, including homes and schools. The International Codes, or I-Codes, published by ICC, provide minimum safeguards for people at home, at school and in the workplace. The I-Codes are a complete set of comprehensive, coordinated building safety and fire prevention codes. Building codes benefit public safety and support the industry's need for one set of codes without regional limitations. Vision: Protect the health, safety and welfare of people by creating safe buildings and communities. Mission: To provide the highest quality codes, standards, products and services for all concerned with the safety and performance of the built environment.FAO-Food and Agriculture Organization: The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Serving both developed and developing countries, FAO acts as a neutral forum where all nations meet as equals to negotiate agreements and debate policy. FAO is also a source of knowledge and information. We help developing countries and countries in transition modernize and improve agriculture, forestry and fisheries practices and ensure good nutrition for all. Since our founding in 1945, we have focused special attention on developing rural areas, home to 70 percent of the world's poor and hungry people. FAO's activities comprise four main areas: Putting information within reach. FAO serves as a knowledge network. We use the expertise of our staff - agronomists, foresters, fisheries and livestock specialists, nutritionists, social scientists, economists, statisticians and other professionals - to collect, analyze and disseminate data that aid development. A million times a month, someone visits the FAO Internet site to consult a technical document or read about our work with farmers. We also publish hundreds of newsletters, reports and books, distribute several magazines, create numerous CD-ROMS and host dozens of electronic fora. Sharing policy expertise, FAO lends its years of experience to member countries in devising agricultural policy, supporting planning, drafting effective legislation and creating national strategies to achieve rural development and hunger alleviation goals. Providing a meeting place for nations. On any given day, dozens of policy-makers and experts from around the globe convene at headquarters or in our field offices to forge agreements on major food and agriculture issues. As a neutral forum, FAO provides the setting where rich and poor nations can come together to build common understanding. Bringing knowledge to the field. Our breadth of knowledge is put to the test in thousands of field projects throughout the world. FAO mobilizes and manages millions of dollars provided by industrialized countries, development banks and other sources to make sure the projects achieve their goals. FAO provides the technical know-how and in a few cases is a limited source of funds. In crisis situations, we work side-by-side with the World Food Program and other humanitarian agencies to protect rural livelihoods and help people rebuild their lives.G20-Group of 20, The Group of Twenty (G-20) Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors was established in 1999 to bring together systemically important industrialized and developing economies to discuss key issues in the global economy. The inaugural meeting of the G-20 took place in Berlin, on December 15-16, 1999, hosted by German and Canadian finance ministers. The G-20 is the premier forum for our international economic development that promotes open and constructive discussion between industrial and emerging-market countries on key issues related to global economic stability. By contributing to the strengthening of the international financial architecture and providing opportunities for dialogue on national policies, international co-operation, and international financial institutions, the G-20 helps to support growth and development across the globe. The G-20 is made up of the finance ministers and central bank governors of 19 countries: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Republic of Korea, Turkey, United Kingdom, United States of America. The European Union, who is represented by the rotating Council presidency and the European Central Bank, is the 20th member of the G-20. To ensure global economic fora and institutions work together, the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the President of the World Bank, plus the chairs of the International Monetary and Financial Committee and Development Committee of the IMF and World Bank, also participate in G-20 meetings on an ex-officio basis. The G-20 thus brings together important industrial and emerging-market countries from all regions of the world. Together, member countries represent around 90 per cent of global gross national product, 80 per cent of world trade (including EU intra-trade) as well as two-thirds of the world's population. The G-20's economic weight and broad membership gives it a high degree of legitimacy and influence over the management of the global economy and financial system.ICAO-International Civil Aviation Organization: The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a specialized agency of the United Nations, codifies the principles and techniques of international air navigation and fosters the planning and development of international air transport to ensure safe and orderly growth. Its headquarters are located in the Quartier International of Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The ICAO Council adopts standards and recommended practices concerning air navigation, its infrastructure, Flight inspection, prevention of unlawful interference, and facilitation of border-crossing procedures for international civil aviation. In addition, the ICAO defines the protocols for air accident investigation followed by transport safety authorities in countries signatory to the Convention on International Civil Aviation, commonly known as the Chicago Convention.ICCt-International Council on Clean Transportation: As a major and rapidly expanding source of greenhouse gases and other air pollutants, transportation presents an urgent global challenge. In 20 years the number of cars on the planet is expected to go from one to two billion; based on current projections, the amount of energy used for transport will double by 2050. The goal of the International Council on Clean Transportation is to protect public health, minimize climate change and improve quality of life for billions of people as the world's transportation infrastructure grows. Overarching Principles: Design programs and policies that reduce conventional, toxic, and noise pollution and greenhouse gas emissions in parallel, and ensure that future technologies provide major improvements in each of these areas. Base policies solely on performance compared to societal objectives, and not give special consideration to specific fuels, technologies, or vehicle types. In both industrialized and developing countries, expect and require the best technologies and fuels available worldwide; it is not necessary or cost-effective for developing nations to follow, step by step, the same path of incremental improvements that was taken by the industrialized nations. Use combinations of economic instruments and regulatory requirements; make related policies complementary. Treat vehicles and fuels as a system, and move toward standards based on life- cycle emissions (including vehicle and fuel production, distribution, and disposal) in policies. Prevent high in-use emissions with more realistic and representative test procedures, greater manufacturer accountability, improved inspection and maintenance programs, on-board monitoring and diagnostics, and retrofit and scrappage programs. Consider the relative cost-effectiveness of near-term measures and the market potential of future technologies. Work across jurisdictions, both nationally and internationally, to strengthen programs and give cohesive signals to affected industries.ICRM-The Institute of Certified Records Managers: The Institute of Certified Records Managers (ICRM) is an international certifying organization of and for professional records and information managers. Incorporated in 1975, the ICRM develops and administers the program for professional certification of records managers, including certification examinations and a certification maintenance program. The ICRM serves as the official certifying body for ARMA International and the Nuclear Information and Records Management Association.IFAD-International Fund for Agriculture Development: The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), a specialized agency of the United Nations, was established as an international financial institution in 1977 as one of the major outcomes of the 1974 World Food Conference. The Conference was organized in response to the food crises of the early 1970s that primarily affected the Sahelian countries of Africa. The conference resolved that "an International Fund for Agricultural Development should be established immediately to finance agricultural development projects primarily for food production in the developing countries". One of the most important insights emerging from the conference was that the causes of food insecurity and famine were not so much failures in food production, but structural problems relating to poverty and to the fact that the majority of the developing world's poor populations were concentrated in rural areas. IFAD's mission is to enable poor rural people to overcome poverty. IFAD is dedicated to eradicating rural poverty in developing countries. Seventy-five per cent of the world's poorest people - 1.05 billion women, children and men - live in rural areas and depend on agriculture and related activities for their livelihoods. Working with rural poor people, governments, donors, non-governmental organizations and many other partners, IFAD focuses on country-specific solutions, which can involve increasing rural poor peoples' access to financial services, markets, technology, land and other natural resources.IFRCS-International Financial Recording Standards: International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) are principles-based Standards, Interpretations and the Framework (1989) adopted by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB). The International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) are a set of accounting standards intended to be used for companies throughout the world. They were developed by the International Accounting Standards Committee. The advantage to multinational companies that switch to IFRS is that they are able to apply the same accounting standards to all of their subsidiaries. The advantage to investors is that they can compare companies across the globe as they determine which stock to purchase.IHO-International Hydrographic Organization: The International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) is an international body representing the hydrographic community. The principal work undertaken by the IHO is: ·To bring about a close and permanent association between national hydrographic offices. ·To study matters relating to Hydrography and allied sciences and techniques. ·To further the exchange of nautical charts and documents between hydrographic officers of member governments. ·To tender guidance and advice upon request, in particular to countries engaged in setting up or expanding their hydrographic service. ·To encourage coordination of hydrographic surveys with relevant oceanographic activities. ·To extend and facilitate the application of oceanographic knowledge for the benefit of navigators. ·To cooperate with international organizations and scientific institutions which have related objectives.ILO-International Labor Organization: The International Labor Organization (ILO) is devoted to advancing opportunities for women and men to obtain decent and productive work in conditions of freedom, equity, security and human dignity. Its main aims are to promote rights at work, encourage decent employment opportunities, enhance social protection and strengthen dialogue in handling work-related issues.IMF-International Monetary Fund: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is an organization of 187 countries, working to foster global monetary cooperation, secure financial stability, facilitate international trade, promote high employment and sustainable economic growth, and reduce poverty around the world.IMO- International Maritime Organization: is the United Nations specialized agency with responsibility for the safety and security of shipping and the prevention of marine pollutionIMSO- International Mobile Satellite Organization: The International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO) is the intergovernmental organization that oversees certain public satellite safety and security communication services provided via the Inmarsat satellites. These public services include: services for maritime safety within the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) distress alerting, search and rescue coordinating, communications, maritime safety information (MSI) broadcasts, general communications, aeronautical safety AMS(R)S services through compliance with the Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) IMSO also acts as the International LRIT Coordinator, appointed by IMO to coordinate the establishment and operation of the international system for the Long Range Identification and Tracking of Ships (LRIT) worldwide.Interpol-International Police Organization: INTERPOL is the world's largest international police organization, with 188 member countries. Created in 1923, it facilitates cross-border police co-operation, and supports and assists all organizations, authorities and services whose mission is to prevent or combat international crime.INTERPOL aims to facilitate international police co-operation even where diplomatic relations do not exist between particular countries. Action is taken within the limits of existing laws in different countries and in the spirit of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. INTERPOL's constitution prohibits 'any intervention or activities of a political, military, religious or racial character.'IOC-International Olympic Committee: is an international corporation based in Lausanne, Switzerland, created by Demetrios Vikelas and Pierre de Coubertin on 23 June 1894. Its membership consists of the 205 National Olympic Committees. The mission of the IOC is to promote Olympism throughout the world and to lead the Olympic Movement. The IOC's role is to: Encourage and support the promotion of ethics in sport as well as education of youth through sport and to dedicate its efforts to ensuring that, in sport, the spirit of fair play prevails and violence is banned; Encourage and support the organization, development and coordination of sport and sports competitions; Ensure the regular celebration of the Olympic Games; Cooperate with the competent public or private organizations and authorities in the endeavor to place sport at the service of humanity and thereby to promote peace; Take action in order to strengthen the unity and to protect the independence of the Olympic Movement; Act against any form of discrimination affecting the Olympic Movement; Encourage and support the promotion of women in sport at all levels and in all structures with a view to implementing the principle of equality of men and women; Lead the fight against doping in sporting. Encourage and support measures protecting the health of athletes; Oppose any political or commercial abuse of sport and athletes; Encourage and support the efforts of sports organizations and public authorities to provide for the social and professional future of athletes; Encourage and support the development of sport for all; Encourage and support a responsible concern for environmental issues, to promote sustainable development in sport and to require that the Olympic Games are held accordingly; Promote a positive legacy from the Olympic Games to the host cities and host countries; Encourage and support initiatives blending sport with culture and education; Encourage and support the activities of the International Olympic Academy (IOA) and other institutions which dedicate themselves to Olympic education.IOM-Institute of Medicine: The Institute of Medicine (IOM) is an independent, nonprofit organization that works outside of government to provide unbiased and authoritative advice to decision makers and the public. The Institute of Medicine serves as adviser to the nation to improve health. The IOM asks and answers the nation's most pressing questions about health and health care. Our aim is to help those in government and the private sector make informed health decisions by providing evidence upon which they can rely. Each year, more than 2,000 individuals, members, and nonmembers volunteer their time, knowledge, and expertise to advance the nation's health through the work of the IOM.IPU-Inter-Parliamentary Union, The IPU is the international organization of Parliaments (Article 1 of the Statutes of the Inter-Parliamentary Union). It was established in 1889. The Union is the focal point for world-wide parliamentary dialogue and works for peace and co-operation among peoples and for the firm establishment of representative democracy. The IPU supports the efforts of the United Nations, whose objectives it shares, and works in close co-operation with it. The Union also co-operates with regional inter-parliamentary organizations, as well as with international intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations which are motivated by the same ideals.ISO-International Organization for Standardization, ISO (International Organization for Standardization) is the world's largest developer and publisher of International Standards. ISO is a network of the national standards institutes of 163 countries, one member per country, with a Central Secretariat in Geneva, Switzerland, that coordinates the system. ISO is a non-governmental organization that forms a bridge between the public and private sectors. On the one hand, many of its member institutes are part of the governmental structure of their countries, or are mandated by their government. On the other hand, other members have their roots uniquely in the private sector, having been set up by national partnerships of industry associations.ITSO-International Telecommunications Satellite Organization: ITSO (International Telecommunications Satellite Organization) is an intergovernmental organization with the mission to ensure that Intelsat, Ltd. provides public telecommunications services, including voice, data and video, on a global and non-discriminatory basis. Headquartered in Washington D.C., ITSO currently has 150 member countries. The mission of the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization (ITSO) is to:act as the supervisory authority of Intelsat, Ltd; ensure the performance of Core Principles for the provision of international public telecommunications services, with high reliability and quality; and promote international public telecommunications services to meet the needs of the information and communication society.ITU-International Triathlon Union: is the official international governing body for the Olympic sport of triathlon. International triathlon union was formed in 1989 at Avignon, France. The first world triathlon championships were held during the same year by the International Triathlon Union. The triathlon world championship event comprised 1500 meter swimming, 40km cycling and 10km running. This is a standard distance for the ITU world cup series.ITUC-International Trade Union Confederation: The International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) is the main international trade union organization, representing the interests of working people worldwide. It has 301 affiliated member organizations in 151 countries and territories, with a total membership of 176 million workers. The ITUC was founded at its inaugural Congress in Vienna, Austria, on 1 -3 November 2006. It groups together the former affiliates of the International Confederation of Free Trade Unions (ICFTU) and the World Confederation of Labor (WCL), along with trade union organizations which had no global affiliation. The ICFTU and the WCL dissolved themselves on 31 October 2006, to pave the way for the creation of the ITUC. The ITUC's primary mission is the promotion and defense of workers' rights and interests, through international cooperation between trade unions, global campaigning and advocacy within the major global institutions. The Program Document adopted at the ITUC founding Congress sets out the Confederation's overall policy framework. Its main areas of activity include: trade union and human rights economy, society and the workplace equality, and non-discrimination international solidarity.MIGA-Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency: As a member of the World Bank Group, MIGA's mission is to promote foreign direct investment (FDI) into developing countries to help support economic growth, reduce poverty, and improve people's lives. It does this by providing political risk insurance (guarantees) to the private sector. MIGA's operational strategy plays to our foremost strength in the marketplace-attracting investors and private insurers into difficult operating environments. The agency's strategy focuses on specific areas where we can make the greatest difference. Countries eligible for assistance from the International Development Association (the world's poorest countries): Conflict-affected environments; Complex deals in infrastructure and extractive industries, especially those involving project finance and environmental and social considerations; South-South investments (from one developing country to another)MONUC-UN stabilization mission: is a United Nations peacekeeping force in the Democratic Republic of the Congo which was established by the United Nations Security Council in resolutions 1279 (1999) and 1291 (2000) of the United Nations Security Council to monitor the peace process of the Second Congo War, though much of its focus subsequently turned to the Ituri conflict, the Kivu conflict and the Dongo conflict. The new mission has been authorized to use all necessary means to carry out its mandate relating, among other things, to the protection of civilians, humanitarian personnel and human rights defenders under imminent threat of physical violence and to support the Government of the DRC in its stabilization and peace consolidation efforts.NAM-National Association of Manufacturers: The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) is the preeminent US manufacturers association as well as the nation's largest industrial trade association, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 12 million workers, contributes more than $1.6 trillion to the U.S. economy annually, is the largest driver of economic growth in the nation and accounts for the lion's share of private sector research and development. The NAM's world-class staff of policy experts provides unmatched access and information on the key issues affecting your business and your bottom-line. We are on the front lines of a wide range of policy battles, from health care reform and labor relations to energy and the environment to trade policy and taxes. At every turn, we are working on behalf of manufacturers in America to advance policies that help manufacturers do what they do best: create economic strength and jobs. The mission of the NAM is to be the voice for all manufacturing in the United States. To inform legislators, the Administration, the media, policy influencers and the public about manufacturing's vital leadership in innovation, job opportunity, technological progress and economic security.NSG-national Geodetic Survey: The Mission of NOAA's National Geodetic Survey (NGS) is "to define, maintain and provide access to the National Spatial Reference System to meet our nation's economic, social, and environmental needs. "NGS provides the framework for all positioning activities in the Nation. The foundational elements - latitude, longitude, elevation and shoreline information - contribute to informed decision making and impact a wide range of important activities including mapping and charting, flood risk determination, transportation, land use and ecosystem management. NGS' authoritative spatial data, models and tools are vital for the protection and management of natural and manmade resources and support the economic prosperity and environmental health of the Nation.OPCW-Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons: The Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) is the implementing body of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC or Convention). The OPCW is given the mandate to achieve the object and purpose of the Convention, to ensure the implementation of its provisions, including those for international verification of compliance with it, and to provide a forum for consultation and cooperation among States Parties.PCA-Permanent Court of Arbitration: The PCA is an intergovernmental organization with over one hundred member states. Established in 1899 to facilitate arbitration and other forms of dispute resolution between states, the PCA has developed into a modern, multi-faceted arbitral institution that is now perfectly situated at the juncture between public and private international law to meet the rapidly evolving dispute resolution needs of the international community. Today the PCA provides services for the resolution of disputes involving various combinations of states, state entities, intergovernmental organizations, and private parties.SACU-Southern African Customs Union: The Southern African Customs Union (SACU) consists of Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa, and Swaziland. The SACU Secretariat is located in Windhoek, Namibia. SACU was established in 1910, making it the world's oldest Customs Union. Its aim is to maintain the free interchange of goods between member countries. It provides for a common external tariff and a common excise tariff to this common customs area. All customs and excise collected in the common customs area are paid into South Africa' national Revenue Fund. The Revenue is shared among members according to a revenue-sharing formula as described in the agreement. South Africa is the custodian of this pool. Only the BLNS Member States' shares are calculated with South Africa receiving the residual. SACU revenue constitutes a substantial share of the state revenue of the BLNS countries.SADC-South African Development Community: The Southern African Development Community (SADC) started as Frontline States whose objective was political liberation of Southern Africa. SADC was preceded by the Southern African Development Coordination Conference (SADCC), which was formed in Lusaka, Zambia on April 01, 1980 with the adoption of the Lusaka Declaration (Southern Africa: Towards Economic Liberation). The SADC Mission is to promote sustainable and equitable economic growth and socio-economic development through efficient productive systems, deeper co-operation and integration, good governance, and durable peace and security, so that the region emerges as a competitive and effective player in international relations and the world economy.UN-United Nations: The United Nations Organization (UNO) or simply the United Nations (UN) is an international organization whose stated aims are facilitating cooperation in international law, international security, economic development, social progress, human rights, and achievement of world peace. The UN was founded in 1945 after World War II to replace the League of Nations, to stop wars between countries, and to provide a platform for dialogue. It contains multiple subsidiary organizations to carry out its missions.UNAMID-African Union/United Nations Hybrid operation in Darfur: is a joint African Union and United Nations peacekeeping mission formally approved by United Nations Security Council Resolution 1769 on July 31, 2007,to bring stability to the war-torn Darfur region of Sudan while peace talks on a final settlement continue. UNAMID has the protection of civilians as its core mandate, but is also tasked with contributing to security for humanitarian assistance, monitoring and verifying implementation of agreements, assisting an inclusive political process, contributing to the promotion of human rights and the rule of law, and monitoring and reporting on the situation along the borders with Chad and the Central African Republic (CAR).UNCTAD-United Nations Conference on Trade and Development: Established in 1964, UNCTAD promotes the development-friendly integration of developing countries into the world economy. UNCTAD has progressively evolved into an authoritative knowledge-based institution whose work aims to help shape current policy debates and thinking on development, with a particular focus on ensuring that domestic policies and international action are mutually supportive in bringing about sustainable development.UNESCO-United Nations Educational: is a specialized agency of the United Nations established on 16 November 1945. Its stated purpose is to contribute to peace and security by promoting international collaboration through education, science, and culture in order to further universal respect for justice, the rule of law, and the human rights along with fundamental freedoms proclaimed in the UN Charter. It is the heir of the League of Nations' International Commission on Intellectual Cooperation. UNESCO implements its activities through the five program areas of Education, Natural Sciences, Social and Human Sciences, Culture, and Communication and Information.UNHCR-United Nations Refugee Agency: The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees was established on December 14, 1950 by the United Nations General Assembly. The agency is mandated to lead and co-ordinate international action to protect refugees and resolve refugee problems worldwide. Its primary purpose is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees. It strives to ensure that everyone can exercise the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another State, with the option to return home voluntarily, integrate locally or to resettle in a third country. It also has a mandate to help stateless people.UNIDO-United Nations Industrial Development Organization: The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations. Its mandate is to promote and accelerate sustainable industrial development in developing countries and economies in transition, and work towards improving living conditions in the world's poorest countries by drawing on its combined global resources and expertise.UNITAR-United Nations Institute for Training and Research: The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) is making concrete contributions to developing the capacities of tens of thousands of people around the world. Since its inception in 1965, UNITAR has built sustainable partnerships acquiring unique expertise and accumulating experience and knowledge to fulfill its mandate. These accomplishments have enabled UNITAR to respond to the growing demand from UN Member States for training for capacity development in the fields of Environment; Peace, Security and Diplomacy; and Governance. UNITAR has training expertise in multilateral diplomacy, international law and human rights, conflict prevention and peacemaking, peacekeeping, adaptation to climate change, environmental governance, chemicals and waste management, local governance, international migration, as well as public finance and trade. UNITAR also serves as a research centre for knowledge systems innovation (KSI) and application of satellite imagery to humanitarian, conflict or disaster situations, through UNOSAT, the Operational Satellite Applications Program.UPU-Universal Postal Union: The UPU was created in 1874, under the name "General Postal Union", as a result of the Treaty of Bern signed on 9 October 1874. In 1878, the name was changed to "Universal Postal Union". The UPU established that: There should be a more or less uniform flat rate to mail a letter anywhere in the world Postal authorities should give equal treatment to foreign and domestic mail Each country should retain all money it had collected for international postage.WCO-World Customs Organization: The World Customs Organization (WCO) is the only intergovernmental organization exclusively focused on Customs matters. With its worldwide membership, the WCO is now recognized as the voice of the global Customs community. It is particularly noted for its work in areas covering the development of global standards, the simplification and harmonization of Customs procedures, trade supply chain security, the facilitation of international trade, the enhancement of Customs enforcement and compliance activities, anti-counterfeiting and piracy initiatives, public-private partnerships, integrity promotion, and sustainable global Customs capacity building programs. The WCO also maintains the international Harmonized System goods nomenclature, and administers the technical aspects of the WTO Agreements on Customs Valuation and Rules of Origin.WFTU-World Federation of Trade Unions: the basic tasks of the WFTU were formulated in the charter adopted in 1945: organizing and uniting the trade unions of the whole world without distinction as to race, nationality, religion, or political convictions; aiding the workers of socially and economically underdeveloped countries in organizing trade unions; fighting for the final elimination of all fascist forms of government, as well as any manifestations of fascism; fighting against war and its causes; defending the interests of the working people throughout the world in all international bodies; organizing the common struggle of trade unions of all countries against any encroachment on the economic and social rights of working people and on economic freedom; fighting to ensure jobs for working people, to increase wages steadily, shorten the working day, and improve the working and living conditions of the working masses; fighting for complete social security of workers, covering unemployment, illness, accidents, and old age; and organizing educational work among the members of trade unions concerning issues of the international unity of the working masses.WHO-World Health Organization: WHO is the directing and coordinating authority for health within the United Nations system. It is responsible for providing leadership on global health matters, shaping the health research agenda, setting norms and standards, articulating evidence-based policy options, providing technical support to countries and monitoring and assessing health trends.WIPO-World Intellectual Property Organization: The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations. It is dedicated to developing a balanced and accessible international intellectual property (IP) system, which rewards creativity, stimulates innovation and contributes to economic development while safeguarding the public interest.WMO-World Meteorological Organization, The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations. It is the UN system's authoritative voice on the state and behavior of the Earth's atmosphere, its interaction with the oceans, the climate it produces and the resulting distribution of water resources.