The Universal Postal Union (UPU) was established in 1874 and is the second oldest international organization worldwide.

With its 192 member countries, the UPU is the primary forum for cooperation between postal sector players. It helps to ensure a truly universal network of up-to-date products and services.

In this way, the organization fulfils an advisory, mediating and liaison role, and provides technical assistance where needed. It sets the rules for international mail exchanges and makes recommendations to stimulate growth in mail, parcel and financial services volumes and improve quality of service for customers.

The UPU became a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN) on 1 July 1948. As such, the UPU contributes to the development of UN policies and activities that have a direct link with its mandate and missions to promote social and economic development.

The UPU initiates many joint activities with other UN specialized agencies, funds and programmes. The UPU’s director general is part of the Chief Executives Board, which coordinates UN system activities. This Board is chaired by the United Nations Secretary-General.

Its headquarters are in the Swiss capital, Berne.

Its website is https://www.upu.int/