Today, market capitalism has no major ideological rival. There is now a universal understanding that market forces are essential for sustainable development. The role of State is changing as well. In Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Commonwealth of Independent States, governments are embracing economic and political liberalization. The United Nations welcomes these new realities, and in particular the growing role of the private sector.
Businesses command vast resources and are the dominant engine of growth in the world today.
Their technological prowess and entrepreneurial spirit make them leading founts of innovation and the principal creators of jobs and wealth. The United Nations would like to harness this dynamism for the common good. But just as there is no doubting the importance of business for the success of economic and social development, there is likewise no doubting the Organization's importance for the success of business. The United Nations system defines the technical standards in shipping, telecommunication and postal services that make international transactions possible. We help countries privatize State enterprises, create special economic zones, remove trade barriers and devise business-friendly legislation.