The OECD, or Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development is an international organization focused on economic and social issues. The OECD was created in 1961 from the reorganization of a Europe-only predecessor organization. Twenty countries were OECD founding members, and on average another contry has subsequently joined every few years. OECD member nations are developed countries that share a commitment to the principles of democratic government and free market economics. The OECD coordinates international efforts related to cross-border problems affecting member states such as money laundering, tax evasion, and corruption. The OECD is also known for its publications and statistics in a number of areas including education, sustainable development, and science and technical innovation. The OECD is headquartered in Paris. |