This new edition of International Organizations provides a concise and balanced reference guide to approximately 250 international organizations, multilateral groups and worldwide forums serving political, security, social and cultural purposes. Highlighting their changing roles and functions as a result of the challenges of globalization and the newly-emerging powers on the world scene, this book includes an historical overview coupled with an up-to-date assessment of current developments. The A-Z arranged entries describe the evolution of different organizations at both the global and regional levels, from the United Nations to NATO, and the European Union to specialized bodies dealing with single products or issues. Each entry is divided into sub-headings and includes information on the history of the organization; its objectives, structure and activities; official and working languages; leading officials; full contact details; main publications and a short bibliographical list. Including detailed membership tables, a chronological table of foundation dates, a glossary of key terms and several indexes, this book is an invaluable reference tool for anyone interested in international affairs and institutions.