Issue 2: July – August 2000

A new book from UN University Press examines the role played by different actors in formulating international and national environmental policy.

According to The Global Environment in the 21st Century: Prospects for International Cooperation, the growing interaction between national and international actors and levels of governance is an increasingly important aspect of international environmental policy.

The UN is often seen as an arena for states to cooperate. In reality, there are many non-state actors that also participate in UN politics, including non-governmental, regional and other international organizations. In addition, the private sector has become increasingly engaged in UN activities as global markets and multinational corporations exercise tremendous influence.

The authors examine the respective roles of five key players in safeguarding the environment and advancing sustainable development: states, civil society, market forces, regional organizations and international organizations. The effectiveness of each actor and its relationship with the other – both within and outside of the UN system – is analyzed.

Editor Pamela S. Chasek founded and edits the Earth Negotiations Bulletin, a reporting service on UN environment and development negotiations. She is also an adjunct professor at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs and Manhattan College.

ISBN 92-808-1029-4 / March 2000 / 465 pages / Paper / US$34.95

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