U.S. Participation in International Organizations: An Update

GAO examined changes in the policies and procedures for the management of U.S. participation in the U.N. since its 1977 report. In that report it was recommended that the President reaffirm the importance of U.S. participation in the U.N., give the Secretary of State responsibility for formulating and directing U.S. policy for such participation, and establish a cabinet-level advisory committee to aid the Secretary of State in carrying out those responsibilities. The Developmental Coordination Committee (DCC) subcommittee on the developmental programs and budgets of international organizations has been designated by the State Department as the cabinet-level advisory. The International Development Cooperation Agency (IDCA), established in July 1979, is to serve as the focal point for all U.S. economic assistance affecting U.S. relations with developing countries, including budget support and policy concerning U.S. support of the U.N. developmental programs. GAO also made recommendations to the Secretary of State for strengthening the management of U.S. participation in international organizations.