United Nations Conference on Trade and Development

The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) was established in 1964 with a mandate to promote the development-friendly integration of developing countries into the world economy. Based in Geneva, Switzerland, UNCTAD works to help developing countries improve their trade policies and negotiate better trade agreements, as well as to attract foreign investment and promote sustainable development. UNCTAD provides research and analysis, technical assistance, and capacity-building to governments, civil society, and private sector stakeholders. The organization also serves as a forum for intergovernmental deliberations on trade and development issues, bringing together policymakers, academics, and experts from around the world to exchange knowledge and ideas. Today, UNCTAD has 195 member countries and is part of the United Nations system.