Legal Definitions - IO

IO

IO stands for Bureau of International Organization Affairs.

The Bureau of International Organization Affairs (IO) is a part of the United States Department of State. It is responsible for managing the United States' relationships with international organizations such as the United Nations, NATO, and the World Health Organization.

IO works to promote U.S. interests in international organizations by advocating for policies that align with U.S. priorities. For example, IO may work to ensure that the United Nations adopts resolutions that support U.S. foreign policy goals.

IO also provides support to U.S. ambassadors and diplomats who work with international organizations. For example, IO may provide guidance on how to navigate the complex procedures of the United Nations or how to build relationships with other member states.

Imagine that the United States wants to promote democracy and human rights around the world. IO would work to ensure that the United Nations adopts resolutions that support these goals. IO would also provide guidance to U.S. diplomats on how to build relationships with other member states to advance these priorities.