1.9. Specialized Agencies, Programmes and Funds

The UN system, also known unofficially as the "UN family", is made up of the UN itself and many affiliated programmes, funds, and specialized agencies, all with their own membership, leadership, and budget.

♤ The programmes and funds are established by and report to the United Nations General Assembly. They are financed through voluntary rather than assessed contributions o International Monetary Fund (IMF): see the entry on Bretton Woods institutions below.o Universal Postal Union (UPU): Established in 1874, the Universal Postal Union (UPU), with its headquarters in the Berne, Switzerland, is the second oldest international organisation worldwide. With its 192 member countries, it is the primary forum for cooperation between postal sector players. It helps to ensure a truly universal network of up-to-date products and services.