Contemporary Preventive Diplomacy Global Institutions Series

This book offers an explanation and evaluation of preventative diplomacy in an age of increasing precariousness. It emphasises the importance of pursuing diplomacy and human security in connection with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) which promote development grounded in peace, justice, and universal respect for human rights.

It explores and uncovers efforts to set up diplomatic channels designed to ensure relations between the great powers, intra- and inter-state conflict, terrorism and weapons of mass destruction, human rights, and the global watch over human security do not escalate out of control. Discussing evolving tensions between the United States and China, and the United States and Russia, this book recalls past examples of preventive diplomacy between them, and explores ideas for the exercise of preventive diplomacy in the future. Presenting evidence that contemporary preventive diplomacy is pursued not only by international or regional officials but also by nongovernmental organizations and individuals, the book emphasises the need to pursue and enhance a comprehensive effort to realize SDG16 and human security.

The book contains a range of practical recommendations to improve preventive diplomacy and provides a unique optic into understanding the threats facing the planet. It will be of interest to scholars and students of diplomacy, security studies, global governance and practitioners in government and international organisations.

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Introduction

1 The United Nations

2 Africa: The AU and sub-regional organizations

3 Asia: ASEAN and other sub-regional institutions and proposals

4 The Americas and Europe: The OAS and OSCE

5 Conclusion: Optimism about civil society, and a proposed executive preventive role for the UN Security Council

Dr Bertrand Ramcharan of Guyana had a 33-year career at the UN, serving, among other roles, as director in the Department of Political Affairs (Africa I Division), and deputy, then acting High Commissioner for Human Rights. He wrote the first draft of Agenda for Peace, and drafted the recommendation to the secretary-general to establish the UN Preventive Deployment in FYR Macedonia. He has been chancellor of the University of Guyana, professor at the Geneva Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, member of the Permanent Court of Arbitration, and commissioner of the International Commission of Jurists. He is the author of several books, including Preventive Diplomacy at the United Nations and International Peace Conferences.