This is a comprehensive examination of the UN which explores its role in international security, human rights and building peace through sustainable development. Built around three critical themes in international relations - international peace and security, human rights and humanitarian affairs, and building peace through sustainable development - ''The United Nations and Changing World Politics'' guides readers through the complexity of policies and history of the UN. A mainstay of the field for more than a decade, this essential book clearly explains what the UN is, how it operates and what its relationships are with external actors and institutions, from sovereign states to non-governmental and inter-governmental organizations now playing important roles in world politics. Featuring a new chapter on evolving security operations and a new foreword by Ramesh Thakur, the sixth edition includes updated discussions of the UN's actions in Darfur and Chad, the tenure of Ban Ki-Moon and the global economic and financial meltdown.