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United Nations in the Twenty-First Century
By
Karen A. Mingst & Margaret P. Karns
This thoroughly revised, concise introduction to the United Nations explores the UN within the context of its essential actors, specialized institutions, and the major global issues of the twenty-first century world political arena. The UN faces a host of challenges and dilemmas, among them rising governance demands that confront the weaknesses of the UN system state sovereignty that is challenged by globalization, the emerging norm of "responsibility to protect" people at risk, US dominance that does not necessarily satisfy the need for leadership and problems states cannot solve alone. The third edition of this popular text focuses on major events since 2000, including 9/11 and the war against terror, the Iraq war's effect on the UN's relevance and the Millennium Development Goals. Thoroughly revised throughout, there is also a new chapter on human security issues that encompass environmental concerns and global health. Greater attention is given to the roles of specialized agencies such as the World Health Organization, Food and Agriculture Organization, and International Labour Organization as well as efforts to reform the UN. Case studies probe the politics and processes of debates over nuclear proliferation, humanitarian intervention in Kosovo and Darfur, slave-like practices, genocide and war crimes, and HIV/AIDS. Additional student resources include the Charter of the United Nations, a list of acronyms, discussion questions, suggested readings and a glossary.
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