The United Nation Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) is a forum designed specifically for discussing the

Answer Details

The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) was established in 1964 as a permanent intergovernmental body within the United Nations system. Its primary mandate is to promote international trade, particularly the trade interests of developing countries, and to negotiate for better terms of trade in the world economy.

UNCTAD addresses issues such as:

• Unfair trade practices that disadvantage developing nations
• Commodity price stabilization
• Preferential tariff treatment for exports from developing countries
• Technology transfer to developing nations
• Reducing trade barriers that hinder development

UNCTAD is not concerned with religious affairs (which fall under other organizations), educational needs of developed countries (which are handled domestically or by UNESCO), or political conflicts in the UN Security Council (which is a separate UN organ dealing with peace and security). Its focus is squarely on trade and development issues aimed at creating a more equitable global trading system.