Nolo's Plain-English Law Dictionary

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United Nations: An international organization founded by 51 countries in 1945 (just after World War II) in an effort to maintain international peace and security, develop friendly relations among nations, and promote social progress, better living standards, and human rights. Currently, the UN consists of 192 member states, including the U.S. Its work includes peacekeeping, humanitarian assistance, environmental protection, human rights, economic and social development, and the promotion of democracy.