International Cooperation

  
International cooperation is the main goal of the UN and many other international non-governmental organizations. The concept has been in existence in some form for thousands of years.  What began with treaties and trade agreements now encompasses issues such as global warming, nuclear proliferation, and global health concerns.  Successful international agreements must navigate such obstacles as national sovereignty, differences in governments and cultures, and deficits of trust among the actors, often requiring guarantees such as third-party brokers and enforcement mechanisms. For example, international cooperation has contributed to the global effort to address climate change.  In 2009, the UN hosted the Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark in which 120 heads of state or government representatives participated and discussed ways to combat global warming.  Many believe that international cooperation is also necessary in addressing human rights concerns.  The UN promotes international cooperation by holding meetings at which each member nation is represented, allowing every nation to discuss global issues and find common solutions.

Books on International Cooperation
International Cooperation: The Extents and Limits of Multilateralism
Making Peace: The Contribution of International Institutions
Rational Theory of International Politics: The Logic of Competition and Cooperation
Conflict and Cooperation: Evolving Theories of International Relations
 
Organizations
United Nations Peacekeeping
Institute for International Cooperation and Development
 
For more books and organizations dedicated to international cooperation issues please visit our Resources page.