A thoroughly updated and comprehensive overview of the United Nations in international relations. Providing a comprehensive and contemporary examination of the United Nations, the authors use a thematic approach to explore the UN's role in three core issues in international relations: international peace and security; human rights and humanitarian affairs; and building peace through sustainable development. This new edition is revised substantially to take into account recent events, including the aftermath of September 11th, the War in Iraq, and the beginnings of the international criminal court.