In this distinctive book, an international cast of contributors combines case studies and analytical approaches to explore - both critically and sympathetically - the landscape of UN peacekeeping efforts in the 1990s. Setting the stage with a discussion of the rapidly changing nature of peacekeeping, the contributors provide a comprehensive group of case studies that examines all UN operations in the 1990s.

Analyzing the larger issues thrown up by these case studies, the contributors look at UN peacekeeping from a regular state-participant's point of view and assess the relationship between regional organizations and the United Nations in peacekeeping missions. In addition, they examine organizational problems at UN headquarters in New York and discuss problems of command and control in the field.

After exploring the difficulties of peacekeeping in civil wars, the relationship between peacekeeping and peacemaking, and the tensions created in moves toward peace enforcement, the contributors conclude by considering the vexing issues of national sovereignty, national interests, and international interests.