One of the principal objectives of the OPEC is to

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for a principal objective of OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries). It is a straightforward recall question on international organizations.

Step 2: Explain the concept OPEC was founded in Baghdad in 1960 by Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Venezuela. Nigeria joined in 1971. Its main aims, as stated in its statute, are:

• To coordinate and unify the petroleum policies of member countries
• To secure fair and stable prices for petroleum producers
• To ensure an efficient, economic and regular supply of petroleum to consuming nations
• To ensure a fair return on capital for those investing in the industry

Step 3: Evaluate each option

• A. Determine oil prices in the international market: Not exactly. OPEC tries to stabilise prices, mostly by adjusting production quotas. Prices are ultimately set by market forces, so this is not the stated objective.
• B. Harmonise the oil policies of member countries: Correct. "Coordination and unification of petroleum policies" is the first and central objective of OPEC.
• C. Discipline erring oil-producing countries: OPEC has no mandate to punish members. Its decisions rely on voluntary compliance.
• D. Assist non-oil producing developing states: This is not an OPEC objective. Aid of this kind is done through separate channels, such as the OPEC Fund for International Development, and it is not a founding aim.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is B.

Exam tip: Remember OPEC's key words: "coordinate, unify, stabilise." If an option uses words like "harmonise" or "coordinate policies," it is usually the right one. Be careful with options that say "determine" or "control" prices, because those overstate what OPEC does.