- Full Organization Name: Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development
- Type: Intergovernmental Organization
- Membership: 38 member countries
- Establishment: Established on 30 September 1961
- Official Language(s): English, French
- Headquarters: Paris, France
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) is a unique forum where governments of 38 democracies with market economies work together, as well as with more than 100 other countries, to address the economic, social, and governance challenges of the globalized economy, as well as to exploit its opportunities.
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development History
The OECD’s origins date back to the post-World War II Marshall Plan. It was established on 30 September 1961, when the Convention signed by its founding members entered into force, taking over from its predecessor, the Organisation for European Economic Co-operation (OEEC), created in 1948 to administer American and Canadian aid under the Marshall Plan for the reconstruction of Europe after World War II.
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development Structure
The OECD’s work is steered by its member countries and revolves around meetings of the OECD Council and its various committees. Decisions are made on a consensus basis. The Council, meeting at the level of Ministers or Permanent Representatives, is the organization’s overarching decision-making body. The Secretariat, led by the Secretary-General, provides support, analysis, and advice. The structure also includes various specialized committees, working groups, and expert groups.
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development Membership
Membership in the OECD is limited to countries that share a commitment to democratic government and a market economy. All member countries have equal representation on the OECD Council, which meets regularly to discuss, develop and refine the Organisation’s work.
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development Objectives
Promoting Policies to Improve Economic and Social Well-being
The OECD provides a platform for governments to work together to share experiences and seek solutions to common problems. It works with governments to understand what drives economic, social, and environmental change.
Knowledge Sharing and Policy Harmonization
The organization gathers data, monitors trends, and analyses and forecasts economic developments. It also sets international standards on a wide range of things, from agriculture and tax to the safety of chemicals.
Sustainable and Inclusive Growth
Fostering sustainable economic growth and development is at the heart of the OECD’s mission. This includes tackling challenges related to environmental sustainability, social inclusiveness, and global development.
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development Funding
The OECD is funded by its member countries. National contributions are based on a formula that takes account of the size of each member’s economy. The largest contributor is the United States, followed by Japan, Germany, and the United Kingdom.
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development Projects
Economic Surveys and Reviews
The OECD conducts economic surveys and reviews of member and partner countries. These reports provide analysis and recommendations on a broad range of economic policies.
Global Forums and Platforms
The OECD hosts various global forums and platforms on issues ranging from the digital economy and tax to investment and corporate governance.
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development Members
Member Countries
- Australia
- Austria
- Belgium
- Canada
- Chile
- Colombia
- Costa Rica
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Israel
- Italy
- Japan
- Korea
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Mexico
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Slovak Republic
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Turkey
- United Kingdom
- United States
The OECD plays a critical role in shaping global policies and setting standards in a wide range of areas, from the economy and development to education and the environment. Its work is instrumental in fostering prosperity, equality, opportunity, and well-being for people around the world. With its evidence-based approach to policy-making, the OECD helps countries to identify and implement better policies for better lives.