Unlike other regional organizations such as the European Union, which are founded on geography, the League of Arab States, or Arab League, is based on a shared culture and rooted in a common language. Established 1945, it seeks to help Arab countries coordinate their policies, gain a united political voice in the world, and develop toward a better common future. The league's constitution provides for the coordination of political, educational, financial, legal, security, cultural, social, and communications affairs. The Arab League is also charged with co-coordinating commercial relationships, passports, visas, and health issues.

Series edited by: Peggy Kahn