In addition to the current 191 member states, the United Nations welcomes several other international agencies, entities, and one non-member state (for several years prior to their admission after a referendum in 2002, Switzerland was also an observer state). Observers have the right to speak at meetings, but not vote on resolutions.
Non-member state
Non-member states are recognized as sovereign entities, like any actual member, and are free to join the General Assembly membership at their discretion.
Permanent international organizations and other entities
Certain intergovernmental organizations (such as the League of Arab States, or Commonwealth Secretariat), non-governmental organizations (such as the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, or the International Seabed Authority), and certain entities whose statehood/sovereignty are not precisely defined (Palestine, and the Sovereign Military Order of Malta) are afforded a permanent office in the United Nations headquarters in New York City. They have an assured presence at General Assembly meetings, unless they are expelled.
Current international organizations and other entities
These intergovernmental organizations, and non-governmental organizations are invited to observe the proceedings of the General Assembly. They can be expelled, or simply not invited to the next Assembly.
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