The OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development)grew out of the Organisation for European Economic Co-operation (OEEC), which was set up in 1947 with support from the United States and Canada to co-ordinate the Marshall Plan for the reconstruction of Europe after World War II.

Today, the OECD consists of 30 member nations who are committed to work together to address issues realted to the challenges of the globalising world economy including economy, the environment, human development, trade, taxation, education, employment and governance. The OECD also provides data needed for future planning.

In addition to the member nations, more than 70 developing nations have a working relationship with the OECD.