What are the two main types of International Governmental Organizations (IGOs)?

The two main types of International Governmental Organizations (IGOs) are indeed characterized as universal and restricted membership. Universal IGOs are those that have a global perspective and tend to include a wide range of member states, such as the United Nations. These organizations are established to address issues that affect a large number of countries and aim for comprehensive participation.

On the other hand, restricted membership IGOs are typically composed of a smaller, more specific group of countries, often based on regional, political, or economic criteria. These organizations may focus on particular interests, such as the European Union, which includes only European nations, or the Organization of American States, which consists of countries from the Americas.

This classification highlights the different scopes and focuses of IGOs, with universal organizations striving for broad inclusion and cooperation among a diverse range of countries, while restricted membership organizations have more targeted goals and member populations. Understanding this distinction is crucial for analyzing the structure and function of IGOs in international relations.