Perseus Academic: The United Nations in the 21st Century by Karen A. Mingst

Praise for the fourth edition of Karen A. Mingst and Margaret P. Karns’ The United Nations in the 21st Century

“The newest edition of The United Nations in the 21st Century provides a thorough and accessible overview of the world’s preeminent international organization. It is updated to include the most recent global challenges, from terrorism to piracy to global warming, and to reflect the importance of new players on the international scene. Mingst and Karns provide historical background and a detailed description of the UN system’s many institutions and actors. I have used earlier editions for my undergraduate courses and am eager to adopt this new-and-improved version.”—Alexander Thompson, Ohio State University

“This is a welcome update of a valuable text for courses on the United Nations, international organization, or IR. Clear organization and accessible writing make it exceptionally user-friendly for undergraduate teaching. Highlights ways the UN has adapted (or not) to new challenges of the 21st century.” —Richard Stahler-Sholk, Eastern Michigan University

“This text presents a comprehensive study of the prospects and challenges for the United Nations in the twenty-first century. It is essential reading for anyone interested in international organization and global politics. The accessible and engaging writing makes it ideal for classroom use.” —Meena Bose, Hofstra University

Praise for the previous edition:

“Mingst and Karns present an elegant combination of historical, institutional and theoretical foundations to explore both the political processes and enduring issues facing the United Nations today. The book provides succinct yet inclusive coverage of the UN as an actor and arena in issues of global governance. The authors artfully weave three themes of governance, sovereignty and leadership to explore current issues like terrorism, the Millennium Development Goals, evolving conceptions of human security and internal reform. Overall, the book serves as a core text while presenting the most updated and thoughtful coverage of the United Nations’ struggle to balance the demands of states with the needs of people.”
—Alynna J. Lyon, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Political Science, University of New Hampshire

“To find such breadth and depth of material on the United Nations and its activities in a book of this size is remarkable. The effective mix of theory, practice, actors, and issues is complemented by an engaging and easy-to-read narrative. The approach and content of this new edition ensure that the book remains valuable reading for all students of the United Nations and international organizations.”
—Courtney B. Smith, Associate Dean of Academic Affairs and Associate Professor at the John C. Whitehead School of Diplomacy and International Relations, Seton Hall University