International Organizations in World Politics

International organizations (IOs) are essential but controversial actors in world politics today. They are expected to do just about everything from rebuilding war-torn societies to helping stop the spread of contagious diseases; from assisting countries in avoiding or overcoming financial crises to address global environmental problems.  Using theoretical literature, International Organizations in World Politics presents different approaches to analyzing the importance and impact of IOs. It then examines the historical development, governance, activities, structure, and performance of major global and regional organizations. The book highlights the most influential IOs, such as the United Nations, World Bank, International Monetary Fund, and World Trade Organization discussing the “nuts and bolts” of the organization, and then providing a case study that seeks to illuminate the constraints and challenges the organization faces.  Regional organizations are also examined with an emphasis on the European Union and the Euro crisis.