Info Nuggets

WMO: Promoting global cooperation on weather,

climate and water

The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) is a specialised agency of the United Nations that promotes international cooperation on atmospheric science, climatology, hydrology, and geophysics.

Mission and activities

The WMO's mission includes:

•  Facilitating the free and unrestricted exchange of meteorological and hydrological data and research
•  Collaborating with partners on environmental protection, climate change, resource management, and socioeconomic development
• Providing information and services to support decision-making in areas like weather forecasting, climate monitoring, and disaster risk reduction

Structure and governance

The WMO has 193 member countries and territories and is governed by the World Meteorological Congress, which meets every four years to set policies and priorities. The organisation is led by a President and an Executive Council, and its Secretariat is headed by a Secretary-General.

Key initiatives

The WMO publishes an annual statement on the status of the global climate, providing information on temperature trends, extreme weather events, and long-term climate change indicators. The organisation plays a crucial role in promoting global cooperation on weather, climate, and water issues, supporting decision-making and sustainable development worldwide.