Final answer:
Intergovernmental organizations (IGOs) are entities composed of states that cooperate on global issues through formal agreements, exemplified by the United Nations and others. They allow states to coordinate efforts and influence global governance, though no strict enforcement mechanism exists to ensure adherence to norms or agreements.
Step-by-step explanation:
Intergovernmental organizations (IGOs) are entities comprised of multiple member states, bound by a formal agreement, to work cooperatively on matters of common interest.
IGOs emerged substantially after World War II, facilitating the international community in addressing global issues and coordinating actions that surpass individual states' agendas. The delegates appointed by each member state represent their nation's interests at IGO meetings. A quintessential example of an IGO is the United Nations (UN), which provides a platform for states to influence one another constructively, opting for conflict resolution and adherence to established norms over violence. On the flip side, no comprehensive enforcement authority within IGOs guarantees absolute adherence to international agreements or norms. Powerful states may leverage their influence within IGOs to reinforce norms and policies that align with their interests, potentially shaping the global governance landscape to their advantage.
Organizations like the UN, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), and the European Union (EU) are prominent global governance representatives, while the International Court of Justice (ICJ) serves as a judiciary body hearing disputes between states. Conversely, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) serve critical roles in global governance without governmental affiliation, often addressing issues left unattended by states and fostering transnational cooperative efforts.