What is the primary role of ICAO?

The primary role of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) is to establish technical specifications and guidelines for international civil aviation. This involves setting standard practices related to safety, security, efficiency, and environmental protection in global air travel. By developing and maintaining these standards, ICAO facilitates coordination and cooperation among its member states, ensuring that airlines and aerodromes operate under consistent protocols. This standardization is essential in promoting safe and efficient air transportation worldwide.

The other options do not capture the core function of ICAO. While ICAO does encourage adherence to national regulations, it does not enforce them, as enforcement is the responsibility of individual countries. Moreover, ICAO focuses on civil aviation rather than military oversight, which falls under the domain of other organizations. Its mandate also does not extend to the direct management of airline operations; rather, ICAO sets the framework within which such operations can be conducted safely and efficiently.