This book is the first comprehensive analysis of the concept of the 'security dilemma', the phrase used to describe the problems of insecurity which are often thought to be the inevitable consequence of living in a world of independent sovereign states. What do we mean by security in world politics? And can the security dilemma be mitigated or even transcended - or must permanent insecurity be suffered as part of the sad lot of humanity? The book examines the evolution of the theory and practice of security in international relations and the impact of globalisation and the collapse of Communism.

The Universal Declaration for Human Rights was approved in 1948 and yet more than fifty years later some human rights-especially the rights of groups such as women, minorities, and indigenous peoples-continue to be at risk. This book examines recent humanitarian catastrophes involving such groups and suggests how the society of states may develop a collective capacity for human rights enforcement. Above all, it emphasizes the long term efforts to stabilize weak or failing societies and to develop democratic governments on which the protection of human rights ultimately depends.