The Specialised Agencies, while part of the UN system, are separate, independent intergovernmental organisations which work with the UN and with each other. The agencies carry out work relating to specific fields such as trade, education, health and agriculture.

Their work within a country, or between countries, is always carried out in partnership with those countries. They are dependent on funds from Member States to achieve their goals.

The heads of the specialised agencies are appointed by, and are accountable to, their legislative and governing bodies.

Of the 14 Specialised Agencies of the UN, eight are particularly involved in work relating to achieving the Millennium Development Goals.

Two of these agencies are the two leading International Financial Institutions: the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund.

The remaining six agencies focus specifically on social and economic development and their work is directly guided by the MDGs.

They are:

• Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO)


• International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)


• International Labour Organisation (ILO)


• United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO)


• United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO)


• World Health Organisation (WHO)

For full details of their role and function and what they have to say about the Millennium Development Goals, click on the relevant page for each Specialised Agency.