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Context:
India has been re-elected to the Council of Administration and the Postal Operations Council (POC) of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) during the 28th UPU Congress held in Dubai.
About Universal Postal Union (UPU)
- Definition: Specialized UN agency and the primary forum for international postal cooperation.
- Members: 192 countries, ensuring a universal postal network.
- Founded: 1874 (Treaty of Bern)
- Headquarters: Berne, Switzerland
- Significance: Second oldest international organization after ITU.
Aim & Objectives
- Promote global postal cooperation and smooth international mail exchange.
- Develop modern, reliable, and affordable postal services.
- Facilitate growth in parcel, mail, and postal financial services.
Governance Structure
| Body | Role |
|---|---|
| Congress | Supreme authority; meets every 4 years; sets strategy & policies |
| Council of Administration (CA) | Policy, regulatory, legal, and administrative issues between Congress sessions |
| Postal Operations Council (POC) | Technical & operational body (48 elected members); drives postal service modernization |
| International Bureau | Secretariat; provides logistical and technical support |
Key Functions of UPU
- Rule-Setting: Establishes global postal regulations and standards.
- Advisory & Mediation: Resolves disputes, promotes international cooperation.
- Technical Assistance: Helps member countries modernize postal services.
- Capacity Building: Improves quality, efficiency, and financial sustainability.
- Global Integration: Supports interoperability, e-commerce, and cross-border logistics.
