Which type of organization has membership based on a universal or restricted basis?

International Governmental Organizations (IGOs) are unique entities formed by treaties between sovereign nations to address specific global issues, facilitate cooperation, and coordinate on international policies. The membership of IGOs is typically defined by international law and is often universal or restricted depending on their founding charters.

Universal membership implies that the organization invites all states willing to engage with its objectives, such as the United Nations. This global association emphasizes widespread participation among member states for issues that affect humanity collectively. On the other hand, restricted membership indicates that only a select group of countries can join, typically based on geographical, political, or thematic limitations, as seen in regional organizations like the European Union.

In contrast, social clubs focus on personal and social interests rather than political or international cooperation. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) operate independently of government influence, often with diverse membership but not structured around state participation. Corporate entities are primarily business-oriented and do not typically function within the framework of state membership like IGOs. Therefore, the nature and scope of IGOs distinctly highlight their role in international relations as organizations that facilitate collaboration and collective action among member states.