The United Nations - by Kent J Kille & Alynna J Lyon (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

This key resource for anyone interested in the United Nations, global issues, or world politics provides accessible and comprehensive coverage of the history, growth, and development of ideas and institutions governing the globe.

The United Nations has been an essential actor in world politics for 75 years. Its entities have eliminated smallpox, protected the ozone layer, promoted arms control, and helped to save the lives of over 90 million children. Yet, it is frequently criticized as ineffective and antiquated. This book provides a balanced and systematic overview of the UN's contributions and challenges, highlighting areas where it plays an essential role in global governance as well as areas of redundancy and needed reform.

This book provides readers with a clear, well-organized reference resource to the entire UN system-its principal organs, specialized agencies, programs and funds, and key issues of engagement. Through individual entries, it examines the history of UN engagement, ranging from peace and security to migration and climate change. It moves beyond a simple description of UN entities as it assesses the development of ideas (such as that of sustainable development), as well as responses to changes in world politics. Finally, it presents both the significant successes of UN work and continued challenges.

Review Quotes

"This impressive work will shed much light on the organization's role in global issues and world politics over the last seven decades. VERDICT An effective and fair-minded account of the growth, development, failures, and successes of the United Nations." --Library Journal, Starred Review

"A solid, information-packed compendium that will work well on the reference shelf of a high-school, undergraduate, or public library." --Booklist

"This is an excellent overview of the structure and functions of the UN and its specialized agencies and programs." --Choice

About the Author

Kent J. Kille is professor of political science and global and international studies at The College of Wooster.

Alynna J. Lyon is professor of political science at the University of New Hampshire.