Fifty years after the creation of the UN, vigorous debate continues as to its limitations and possibilities. David J. Whittaker offers a concise critical analysis of the UN as a world organization and considers how it works and what reforms are desirable and feasible. Exploring the nature of the UN as a regime in contemporary international relations, Whittaker considers its changing terms of reference and includes a series of case studies to illustrate its multifaceted activities--peacekeeping, arms control, aid for refugees--and the complex issues associated with developing nations and global urbanization.

Part I: Infrastructural Change 1. The Ideas and Structures of 1945 2. Changing UN Ideas and Approaches 3. Sovereign States as UN Members Part II. The UN in a Changing International Environment 4. Peacekeeping 5. Arms Control and Disarmament 6. The UN and the Developing World 7. The UN and an Urbanizing World 8. Helping Refugees Part III: Facing the Future 9. Selective Tally of Suggested Reforms Outlining Problems, Listing Recommendations and Noting Reservations 10. The UN Shapes the Future: An Evaluation