The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) is an intergovernmental economic organization that was founded in 1961. Since then, the OECD has grown to include 37 member countries, each of which works together to promote economic growth, prosperity, and sustainable development. There are several synonyms for the term "the OECD", including the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, the Economic Cooperation and Development Organization, and simply, the Organisation. Additionally, some individuals may refer to the OECD as the OECD countries, or the OECD community, to emphasize the collaborative nature of the organization and its partnership with its member states. Whatever term is used to refer to the OECD, it remains an important force for economic development and cooperation around the world.