The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) has expanded to include ten member states, solidifying its position as the world's largest regional organization by geography and population. The current member states are Belarus, China, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. The SCO was established in 2001 by China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan with the aim of promoting cooperation and peace among its member states, as well as fostering a new international political and economic order. Over the years, the organization has expanded to include India and Pakistan in 2017, Iran in 2023, and Belarus in 2024. The SCO covers about 80 percent of the Eurasian landmass and 40 percent of the world population. Following the integration of Iran, the SCO now controls 20 percent of the world’s oil reserves and 44 percent of its natural gas. The organization is a key institution in the Chinese and Russian strategic push toward a “multipolar world,” positioning itself as an alternative to Western-dominated international forums like the United Nations. The SCO is governed by the Heads of State Council (HSC), its supreme decision-making body, which meets once a year. The organization also contains the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS), emphasizing its focus on regional security and cooperation. The inclusion of Belarus as the tenth member state marks a significant milestone in the SCO's expansion. Belarus completed all necessary procedures for membership in a short period, demonstrating its commitment to the organization's objectives.

The SCO's growth reflects its increasing influence in global affairs, particularly in the Eurasian region. Its diverse membership and comprehensive agenda make it a crucial player in shaping regional and international policies. The organization's emphasis on cooperation, security, and economic development underscores its role in promoting stability and prosperity across its vast geographical scope.