Encyclopedia of the United Nations and International Agreements, 4 Vol. Set

   Thoroughly updated, rewritten, and redesigned, this new edition of the 1985 standard work is a timely and uniquely comprehensive guide to one of the most influential organizations in the world. In nearly 6,000 A–Z entries, the third edition of the Encyclopedia of the United Nations and International Agreements demystifies the workings of the global body that has proved to be one of the great achievements of the twentieth century, and sheds light on its latest aims and initiatives at the start of the new millennium.

   Perhaps best known for its efforts toward world peace, human rights, and international justice such as the ongoing work to end the Arab-Israeli conflict and the establishment of war crimes tribunals for the former Yugoslavia and Rwanda — the U.N. and its specialized agencies are also concerned with the environment, immigration, literacy, world hunger, women’s rights, and a host of other global issues. This in-depth reference allows readers to explore the entire universe of U.N. causes and activities. The intensively revised articles explain essential concepts and philosophies, the role of the U.N. in international law and finance, the missions and accomplishments of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), and the galaxy of committees that work within this massive institution. In addition, readers will find an all-new set of entries on peacekeeping activities, and full coverage of international treaties since the founding of the League of Nations, with generous quotations or full text for all key treaties, conventions, pacts, protocols, and declarations.

   Endorsed with a foreword by the current Secretary-General of the U.N., Kofi Annan, this is the most comprehensive, detailed reference to the U.N. ever published, providing readable, yet highly in-depth access to virtually every aspect of this vast and complex institution. Featuring an attractive and inviting new design, the 2002 edition of the Encyclopedia of the United Nations and International Agreements is designed for levels ranging from high school to postgraduate. This set will be an essential resource for any library serving readers with global interests, including secondary schools, public libraries, colleges and universities, government agencies, and nongovernmental organizations.