This book offers an explanation and evaluation of preventative diplomacy in an age of increasing precariousness. It emphasises the importance of pursuing diplomacy and human security in connection with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) which promote development grounded in peace, justice, and universal respect for human rights.

Dr Bertrand Ramcharan of Guyana had a 33-year career at the UN, serving, among other roles, as director in the Department of Political Affairs (Africa I Division), and deputy, then acting High Commissioner for Human Rights. He wrote the first draft of Agenda for Peace, and drafted the recommendation to the secretary-general to establish the UN Preventive Deployment in FYR Macedonia. He has been chancellor of the University of Guyana, professor at the Geneva Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, member of the Permanent Court of Arbitration, and commissioner of the International Commission of Jurists. He is the author of several books, including Preventive Diplomacy at the United Nations and International Peace Conferences.

Introduction

1 The United Nations

2 Africa: The AU and sub-regional organizations

3 Asia: ASEAN and other sub-regional institutions and proposals

4 The Americas and Europe: The OAS and OSCE

5 Conclusion: Optimism about civil society, and a proposed executive preventive role for the UN Security Council