The No-Nonsense Guide to the United Nations is virtually unique in UN literature in covering the whole of the UN system, not just the political bodies in New York. Maggie Black explains the structure and assesses the UN's record on humanitarian relief, protection of the global commons, development, health, education, international law and human rights.

It includes the UN creation and early history; how it is structured and whether it is well constituted in its functions. She considers possibilities for reform to make it more democratic, effective and fit for purpose.

The task of understanding the UN is mind-bendingly difficult. This book does more to explain it in a relatively short space than a host of more scholarly books on international affairs.

Diagrams, charts and graphs used throughout to illustrate key information.