The UN, Peace and Force

Restoring and maintaining peace within war-torn societies is a relatively new task for the United Nations. This book examines the options for the UN in the use of force to secure peace, and the extent to which peacekeeping can be effectively extended to coerce warring factions. A combination of internationally distinguished academics and new scholars at the forefront of research are represented, making an important contribution to the debate about the role of international military operations in the maintenance of international peace and security.

This book fills a major gap in the study of inter-war British foreign policy: it is the first complete study of Austen Chamberlain's term of office as Stanley Baldwin's Foreign Secretary from 1924-29. It is argued that Chamberlain's priority was a two-stage policy in western Europe, which aimed at pacifying both France and Germany, as well as encouraging the League of Nations. Other key chapters deal with British policy in the Middle East and China and policy Towards America. Overall, Chamberlain is shown to have committed Britain to a European diplomatic role, which was opposed by Cabinet ministers who did not see a European interest to all aspects of British foreign policy. Today, in the Conservative Party, the debate is still unresolved.

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A variety of perspectives on the role of international military operations in maintaining peace and security, which the United Nations has recently undertaken, drawing on the setbacks in Somalia, Yugoslavia, and elsewhere. Among them are the changing context, problems the UN has fulfilling mandates, the revival of preventative diplomacy, and the obligation to provide humanitarian relief. The 10 essays were also published in vol. 3, no. 4 (winter 1996). Paper edition (unseen), $19.50. Distributed by ISBS. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.