Clive Archer was, until 2009, Research Professor at Manchester Metropolitan University and is now a freelance researcher and writer.

The fourth edition of Clive Archer's widely used textbook continues to provide students with an introduction to international organizations, exploring their increasing significance in the modern international political systems.

1. Definitions and history, 2. Classification of international organizations, 3. Writings on international organizations, 4. Role and function of international organizations, 5. International organizations: the future