The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945 to promote peace, security, and cooperation among countries. It was established after World War II to prevent future conflicts and to foster friendly relations among nations. The UN has 193 member states and works on various global issues, including human rights, development, and humanitarian aid. The UN operates through several specialized agencies, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF). Its main bodies include the General Assembly, where all member states have a voice, and the Security Council, which addresses threats to international peace.